Liquid channel device and production method therefor

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to a liquid channel device capable of easily opening the liquid channel from the closed mode, including a base plate in which a liquid channel, through which a liquid containing at least one of a sample and a reagent, flows, and a metering chamber for holding the liquid, are formed to at least one side thereof, the metering chamber has a liquid transport section for transporting the liquid inside the chamber downstream, and this liquid transport section is operated by means of external pressing on a cover plate in the area opposite the metering chamber.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a liquid channel device in the form ofa flat plate, which is optimally employed in the detection and analysisof blood antigens for example, and further relates to a productionmethod therefore.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Recently, detection and analysis of trace components in liquid samplesis frequently carried out in the medical and environmental fields. Inthis case, a liquid channel device, referred to as a microchip, in whichchannels are formed in a base plate, is often employed in the medicalfield, for example.

For example, Patent Document No. 1 discloses a technique in which anantibody-containing reagent and blood are mixed in the liquid channelformed in the microchip and allowed to react. Each microchip is then setin a detection device where the antigen-antibody reaction is detected.Further, Patent Document No. 2 discloses a disk-type liquid channeldevice in which multiple channels are formed in the radial direction ina rotatable disk and antibodies are adhered in advance to a portion ofthe channels. By subsequently allowing the bodily fluid to flow throughthe channels, the antigens in the liquid can be captured through theantibody-antigen reaction.

PRIOR ART REFERENCES Patent Documents

-   [Patent Document No. 1] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application,    First Publication No. 2007-139500-   [Patent Document No. 2] Japanese Unexamined Patent Application,    First Publication No. Hei 05-005741

DISCLOSURE OF THE INVENTION Problems to be Solved by the Invention

However, the liquid channel device disclosed in Patent ReferenceDocument No. 1 requires a separate micropump in order to cause thesample or reagent to flow through the channel. The liquid devicedisclosed in Patent Document No. 2 requires a device for rotating thedisk.

Further, in a conventional liquid channel device of this type, it isimpossible to close and open the liquid channels. This is inconvenientwhen detecting and analyzing a target component.

In addition, in this type of conventional liquid channel device, it isimpossible to open a portion of the liquid channel from the closed mode,close a portion of the liquid channel from the open mode, or to close oropen a portion of the liquid channel. This is inconvenient with respectto the detection and analysis of a target component.

It is the object of the present invention to provide a liquid channeldevice at low cost which is capable of easily opening the liquid channelfrom the closed mode without requiring a separate device for inducingflow of the liquid, i.e., a liquid channel device which is capable ofcausing a liquid to flow easily and smoothly in the channel.

It is the further object of the present invention to provide a liquidchannel device at low cost which is capable of easily opening the liquidchannel from the closed mode, closing the liquid channel from the openmode, and changing the liquid channel from the open to the closed modeand from the closed to the open mode.

Means for Solving the Problem

The liquid channel device according to the present invention is a liquidchannel device including a base plate having a liquid channel throughwhich a liquid containing at least one of a sample and a reagent, flows,and one or more liquid chambers for holding the liquid, are formed to atleast one side thereof, and a cover plate which is laminated onto achannel formation surface of the base plate where the liquid channel andthe liquid chambers are formed,

wherein at least one of the liquid chambers has a liquid transportsection for transporting the liquid from the inside to the outside ofthe liquid chamber, and

the liquid transport section is operated by external pressing on a floorof the liquid chamber or to the cover plate in the area corresponding tothe liquid chamber.

In the liquid channel device according to the present invention, it ispreferable that the liquid channel device further include an openingsection which opens a portion of the liquid channel from a closed modeand a closing section which closes a portion of the liquid channel froman open mode;

the cover plate have a first base layer which forms the surface of thecover plate, a strongly adhered layer which is formed to the inside ofthe first base layer, a second base layer which is formed to the insideof the strongly adhered layer, and a weakly adhered layer which isformed to the inside of the second base layer and is adhered to thechannel formation surface;

in the opening section, a first convex section be formed to the liquidchannel, the top part of the first convex section and the weakly adheredlayer be adhered, and the strongly adhered layer and the second baselayer be separated;

in the closing section, a second convex section be formed to the liquidchannel, the top part of the second convex section and the weaklyadhered layer be separated, and a spacer be interposed between thestrongly adhered layer and the second base layer, and the spacer and thestrongly adhered layer be adhered together;

in the liquid transport section, a spacer be interposed between thestrongly adhered layer and the second base layer, and the spacer and thestrongly adhered layer be adhered.

In the liquid channel device according to the present invention, it ispreferable that the base plate include an outer layer, a middle layerwhich is laminated to the inside of the outer layer, and an inner layerwhich is laminated to the inside of the middle layer;

a top part of the liquid chamber, the liquid channel, the first convexsection, and the second convex section be formed to the inner layer; and

a bottom part of the liquid chamber be formed to the middle layer.

In the liquid channel device according to the present invention, it ispreferable that the base plate include an outer layer, and an innerlayer which is laminated to the inside of the outer layer; and

the liquid chamber, the liquid channel, the first convex section, andthe second convex section be formed to the inner layer.

In the liquid channel device according to the present invention, it isalso preferable that a reverse flow check for preventing reverse flow ofthe liquid transported by the liquid transport section be provided tothe liquid chambers that are provided with a liquid transport section.

Further, in this case, it is preferable that the reverse flow check beformed to the inner layer.

When the liquid transport section is operated by external pressing onthe floor of the liquid chambers, it is preferable that the floor beformed expanding outward.

The liquid channel device according to the present invention is a liquidchannel device including a base plate in which a liquid channel, throughwhich a liquid containing at least one of a sample and a reagent flows,is formed to at least one side thereof, and a cover plate which islaminated to a channel formation surface of the base plate where theliquid channel is formed,

wherein the liquid channel device further includes an opening sectionfor opening a portion of the liquid channel from a closed mode;

the cover plate includes a first base layer forming a surface of thecover plate, a strongly adhered layer formed to the inside of the firstbase layer, a second base layer formed to the inside of the stronglyadhered layer, and a weakly adhered layer which is formed to the insideof the second base layer and is adhered to the channel formationsurface; and

in the opening section, a first convex section is formed to the liquidchannel, a top part of the first convex section and the weakly adheredlayer are adhered, and the strongly adhered layer and the second baselayer are separated.

In the liquid channel device according to the present invention, it ispreferable that the liquid channel device further includes a closingsection for closing a portion of the liquid channel from an open mode,and

in the closing section, a second convex section is formed to the liquidchannel, a top part of the second convex section and the weakly adheredlayer be separated, a spacer be interposed between the strongly adheredlayer and the second base member, and the spacer and the stronglyadhered layer be adhered.

In the liquid channel device according to the present invention, it isalso preferable that the liquid channel device further include ametering chamber for quantifying a specific volume of the liquidprovided to the liquid channel, and

the closing section is provided upstream with respect to the meteringchamber, and the opening section is provided downstream with respect tothe metering chamber.

In the liquid channel device according to the present invention, it isalso preferable that the metering chamber include an overflow sectionfor allowing overflow of the liquid in excess of the specific volume.

The liquid channel device according to the present invention is a liquidchannel device including a base plate in which a liquid channel throughwhich a liquid flows and one or more liquid chambers for holding theliquid are formed to at least one surface thereof, and a cover platewhich is laminated to a channel formation surface in which the liquidchannel and the liquid chambers of the base plate are formed,

wherein the liquid channel device further includes an opening sectionfor opening a portion of the liquid channel from a closed mode,

the opening section includes a stopper which is disposed to a portion ofthe liquid channel, and which undergoes plastic deformation by means ofexternal pressing on the cover plate or the floor of the liquid channel,thereby opening the liquid channel.

In the liquid channel device according to the present invention, it ispreferable that the cover plate or the floor of the liquid channel thatis in contact with the stopper be subjected to a releasing treatment.

The production method for the liquid channel device according to thepresent invention is a production method including:

a first step of forming the liquid chambers and the liquid channel tothe base plate,

a second step of forming the stopper to a portion of the liquid channel,and

a third step of laminating the cover plate to the channel formationsurface of the base plate,

in the first step, a top part of the liquid chambers and the liquidchannel are formed to a sheet which forms the inner layer of the baseplate, and after a bottom part of the liquid chambers is formed to asheet which forms the middle layer of the base plate, the sheet formingthe inner layer, the sheet forming the middle layer, and a sheet formingthe outer layer of the base plate are laminated sequentially.

In the production method, it is preferable that, in the second step, thestopper be formed by coating a stopper forming material for forming thestopper to a portion of the liquid channel.

The liquid channel device according to the present invention is a liquidchannel device including a base plate in which a liquid channel throughwhich a liquid flows and one or more liquid chambers for holding theliquid that are formed to at least one surface thereof, and a coverplate which is laminated to a channel formation surface of the baseplate in which the liquid channel and the liquid chambers are formed,

wherein the liquid channel device further includes a closing section forclosing a portion of the liquid channel from the open mode;

the closing section includes a sealing material supply chamber which isformed branching from a portion of the liquid channel,

a sealing material which fills the sealing material supply chamber andis extruded out into part of the liquid channel by external pressing ona floor of the sealing material supply chamber or on the cover plate inan area corresponding to the sealing material supply chamber, therebyclosing the liquid channel.

The production method for the liquid channel device according to thepresent invention is a production method including:

a first step in which the liquid channel, the liquid chambers, and thesealing material supply chamber are formed to the base plate;

a second step in which the sealing material supply chamber is filledwith the sealing material;

a third step in which the cover plate is laminated to the channelformation surface of the base plate; and

in the first step, a top part of the liquid chambers, the liquidchannel, and the sealing material supply chamber are formed to a sheetwhich forms an inner layer of the base plate, and a bottom part of theliquid chambers is formed to a sheet which forms a middle layer of thebase plate, then the sheet forming the inner layer, the sheet formingthe middle layer and a sheet forming an outer layer of the base plateare laminated sequentially.

In the production method, it is preferable that, in the second step, thesealing material is filled by coating the sealing material to thesealing material supply chamber.

The liquid channel device according to the present invention is a liquidchannel device including a base plate in which a liquid channel throughwhich a liquid flows and one or more liquid chambers for holding theliquid are formed to at least one surface thereof, and a cover platewhich is laminated to a channel formation surface of the base platewhere the liquid channel and the liquid chambers are formed,

wherein the liquid channel device further includes an opening sectionfor opening a portion of the liquid channel from a closed mode;

the opening section is equipped with a stopper which is disposed to aportion of the liquid channel, and a concave section capable of housingthe stopper at a position on an inner surface of the cover plate or afloor of the liquid channel that is opposite the stopper; and

the stopper is moved from the portion of the liquid channel to withinthe concave section by external pressing on the cover plate or thefloor, thereby opening the liquid channel.

The production method for a liquid channel device according to thepresent invention is a production method for the liquid channel devicein which the concave section is formed to an inner surface of the coverplate, wherein the production method includes:

a first step of forming the liquid channel and the liquid chambers tothe base plate, and forming the concave section to the cover plate;

a second step of forming the stopper to a portion of the liquid channel;and

a third step of laminating the cover plate to the channel formationsurface of the base plate,

in the first step, a top part of the liquid chambers and the liquidchannel are formed to a sheet that forms an inner layer of the baseplate, and a bottom part of the liquid chambers is formed to a sheetthat forms a middle layer of the base plate, then the sheet forming theinner layer, the sheet forming the middle layer and a sheet forming anouter layer of the base plate are laminated sequentially, therebyforming the liquid channel and the liquid chambers to the base plate,and the concave section is formed to the sheet that forms the innerlayer of the cover plate, after that, the sheet that forms the innerlayer of the cover plate and the sheet that forms the outer layer of thecover plate are laminated to form the concave section in the coverplate.

The production method for a liquid channel device according to thepresent invention is a production method for the liquid channel devicein which the concave section is formed to the floor of the liquidchannel,

wherein the production method includes:

a first step of forming the liquid channel, the liquid chambers, and theconcave section to the base plate,

a second step of forming the stopper to a position opposite the concavesection on the inner surface of the cover plate, and

a third step of laminating the cover plate to the channel formationsurface of the base plate,

in the first step, a top part of the liquid chambers and the liquidchannel are formed to a sheet that forms an inner layer of the baseplate, the middle part of the liquid chambers and the concave sectionare formed to a sheet that forms an inside middle layer of the baseplate, and the bottom part of the liquid chambers are formed to a sheetthat forms an outside middle layer of the base plate, after which thesheet forming the inner layer of the base plate, the sheet forming theinside middle layer, the sheet forming the outside middle layer, and thesheet forming an outer layer of the base plate are laminatedsequentially.

Further, the liquid channel device according to the present invention isa liquid channel device including a base plate in which a liquid channelthrough which a liquid flows and one or more liquid chambers for holdingthe liquid are formed to at least one surface thereof, and a cover platewhich is laminated to a channel formation surface of the base plate inwhich the liquid channel and the liquid chambers are formed,

wherein the liquid channel device further includes a closing section forclosing a portion of the liquid channel from an open mode;

the closing section includes a stopper which is housed within a concavesection formed to an inner surface of the cover plate or a floor of theliquid channel, the stopper moves from within the concave section to aportion of the liquid channel due to external pressing on the coverplate or the floor, thereby closing the liquid channel.

The production method for a liquid channel device according to thepresent invention is a production method for the liquid channel devicein which the concave section is formed to the inner surface of the coverplate, including:

a first step of forming the liquid channel and liquid chambers to thebase plate, and forming the concave section to the cover plate;

a second step of forming the stopper within the concave section; and

a third step of laminating the cover plate to the channel formationsurface of the base plate;

in the first step, a top part of the liquid chambers and the liquidchannel are formed to a sheet that forms the inner layer of the baseplate, and a bottom part of the liquid chambers is formed to a sheetthat forms the middle layer of the base plate, after which the sheetforming the inner layer of the base plate, the sheet forming the middlelayer of the base plate and a sheet forming the outer layer of the baseplate are laminated sequentially, to form the liquid channel and theliquid chambers to the base plate, and a concave section is formed tothe sheet forming the inner layer of the cover plate, after which thesheet forming the inner layer of the cover plate and the sheet formingthe outer layer of the cover plate are laminated to form the concavesection in the cover plate.

The production method for a liquid channel device according to thepresent invention is a production method for the liquid channel devicein which the concave section is formed to the floor of the liquidchannel, including:

a first step of forming the liquid channel, liquid chambers and theconcave section to the base plate;

a second step of forming the stopper within the concave section; and

a third step of laminating the cover plate to the channel formationsurface of the base plate;

in the first step, a top part of the liquid chambers and the liquidchannel are formed to a sheet that forms the inner layer of the baseplate, a middle part of the liquid chambers and the concave section areformed to a sheet that forms the inside middle layer of the base plate,and a bottom part of the liquid chambers is formed to a sheet that formsthe outside middle layer of the base plate, after which the sheetforming the inner layer of the base plate, the sheet forming the insidemiddle layer, the sheet forming the outside middle layer, and a sheetforming the outer layer of the base plate are laminated sequentially.

In the production method, it is preferable that, in the second step, thestopper is formed by coating the stopper forming material for formingthe stopper.

Effects of the Invention

The present invention enables the provision of a low cost liquid channeldevice in which the liquid channel can be easily opened from the closedmode, i.e., which is capable of causing a liquid to flow in the channeleasily and smoothly, without requiring a separate device for causingflow of the liquid.

Further, the present invention provides a liquid channel device at lowcost which is capable of easily opening the liquid channel from theclosed mode, closing the liquid channel from the open mode, or changingthe liquid channel from the open to the closed and from the closed tothe open modes.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic planar perspective view showing the liquid channeldevice according to a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a planar perspective view in which a portion of the liquidchannel device in FIG. 1 is enlarged.

FIG. 3 is a cross-sectional view along the line I-I′ in FIG. 2.

FIG. 4A is an explanatory figure for explaining the condition in theopen channel portion operates in the liquid channel device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4B is an explanatory figure for explaining the condition when theopen channel portion operates in the liquid channel device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5A is an explanatory figure for explaining the condition when theclosing part operates in the liquid channel device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 5B is an explanatory figure for explaining the condition when theclosing part operates in the liquid channel device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6A is an explanatory figure for explaining the condition when theliquid sending portion operates in the liquid channel device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 6B is an explanatory figure for explaining the condition when theliquid sending portion operates in the liquid channel device of FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view in which a portion of the base plate of theliquid channel device in FIG. 1 is enlarged.

FIG. 8 is a schematic planar perspective view showing a secondembodiment of the liquid channel device according to the presentinvention.

FIG. 9 is a schematic explanatory view for explaining an example of themethod of use for the liquid channel device in FIG. 8.

FIG. 10A is an explanatory figure for explaining the condition when theliquid sending part is operating in the liquid channel device accordingto the third embodiment.

FIG. 10B is an explanatory figure for explaining the condition when theliquid sending part is operating in the liquid channel device accordingto the third embodiment.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view in which a portion of the base plate ofthe liquid channel device in FIG. 10A, 10B is enlarged.

FIG. 12 is a schematic view showing the production process of the baseplate of the liquid channel device in FIGS. 10A and 10B.

FIG. 13 is a cross-sectional view showing another embodiment of the baseplate of the liquid channel device according to the third embodiment.

FIG. 14 is a schematic planar perspective view showing the liquidchannel device according to a fourth embodiment of the presentinvention.

FIG. 15 is a planar perspective view showing an expanded view of aportion of the liquid channel device in FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view along the line I-I′ in FIG. 15.

FIG. 17A is a view for explaining the condition when the opening partoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 14, and is across-sectional view showing the state when a weight is applied to thestopper.

FIG. 17B is a view for explaining the condition when the opening partoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 14, and is across-sectional view showing the state when a weight is removed.

FIG. 18 is a cross-sectional view along the line II-II′ in FIG. 15.

FIG. 19A is a view for explaining the condition when the closing partoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 14, and is across-sectional view showing the state when the sealing material ispressed out.

FIG. 19B is a view for explaining the condition when the closing partoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 14, and is a planar view.

FIG. 20 is a process figure for schematically explaining the productionprocess for the liquid channel device in FIG. 14.

FIG. 21 is a schematic planar perspective view showing the liquidchannel device according to the fifth embodiment.

FIG. 22 is a planar perspective view in which a portion of the liquidchannel device in FIG. 21 is enlarged.

FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view along the line II-II′ in FIG. 22.

FIG. 24A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the opening part in FIG.23.

FIG. 24B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the closing part in FIG.23.

FIG. 25A is a view for explaining the condition when the opening portionoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 21, and is across-sectional view showing the condition when a weight is applied bypressing the cover plate from the outside.

FIG. 25B is a view for explaining the condition when the opening partoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 21, and is across-sectional view showing the state when a weight is removed.

FIG. 26A is a view for explaining the condition when the closing portionoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 21, and is across-sectional view showing the condition when a weight is applied bypressing the cover plate from the outside.

FIG. 26B is a view for explaining the condition when the closing partoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 21, and is across-sectional view showing the state when a weight is removed.

FIG. 27 is a process figure for schematically explaining the productionprocess for the liquid channel device in FIG. 21.

FIG. 28 is a cross-sectional view showing an arrangement in whichstopper rests are provided in the liquid channel device in FIG. 21.

FIG. 29 is a planar view schematically showing an example in which theshape of the stopper in planar perspective is rhombohedral in shape.

FIG. 30 is a cross-sectional view showing a portion of the liquidchannel device according to the sixth embodiment.

FIG. 31A is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the open part in FIG.30.

FIG. 31B is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the closed part in FIG.30.

FIG. 32A is a view for explaining the condition when the opening portionoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 30, and is across-sectional view showing the condition when a weight is applied bypressing the cover plate from the outside.

FIG. 32B is a view for explaining the condition when the opening partoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 30, and is across-sectional view showing the state when a weight is removed.

FIG. 33A is a view for explaining the condition when the closing portionoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 30, and is across-sectional view showing the condition when a weight is applied bypressing the cover plate from the outside.

FIG. 33B is a view for explaining the condition when the closing partoperates in the liquid channel device in FIG. 30, and is across-sectional view showing the state when a weight is removed.

FIG. 34 is a process figure for schematically explaining the productionmethod for the liquid channel device in FIG. 30.

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

The present invention will now be explained in detail.

First Embodiment

FIG. 1 is a planar perspective view schematically showing a liquidchannel device 10A according to a first embodiment of the presentinvention. FIG. 2 is a planar perspective view in which a part of theliquid channel device 10A in FIG. 1 is enlarged. FIG. 3 is across-sectional view along the line I-I′ in FIG. 2.

In this liquid channel device 10A, a groove-like liquid channel 12through which a liquid, which contains at least one of a sample and areagent, flows, and a plurality (nine in this embodiment) of liquidchambers 14 a˜14 i for storing the liquid at the ends of or along theliquid channel 12, are formed to one side of a flat square base plate11A. Further, a cover plate 13 is laminated onto a channel formationsurface 12 a on the side of the base plate 11A where the liquid channel12 and the liquid chambers 14 a˜14 i are formed.

In the liquid channel device 10A according to this embodiment, by merelydirecting the top part in FIG. 1 upward and the bottom part in FIG. 1downward, the sample flows under the force of gravity from the upstreamto the downstream end of the liquid channel 12 in the direction of arrowF. Along the way, various procedures and mixing with reagents occur tothe sample, thereby formulating a measured liquid which is supplied tovarious detection and analyses. However, as will be explained in detailbelow, a smooth and easy flow of the liquid is obtained in thisembodiment by incorporating the use of liquid transport sections at theliquid chambers.

A sample introduction chamber 14 a, which holds the introduced sample,is provided to the upstream end of the liquid channel 12. A filteringchamber 14 b housing a filter, which is not shown in figures, andfilters the sample which has flowed from the sample introduction chamber14 a, is provided downstream from the sample introduction chamber 14 a.A metering chamber 14 c, which is formed so that its internal capacityhas a specific volume and which can quantify the filtered sample, isprovided downstream from the filtering chamber 14 b.

An overflow section, which includes an overflow path 12 b and a wastesolution chamber 14 d provided downstream from the overflow path 12 b,is provided to the metering chamber 14 c in this embodiment. For thisreason, sample in excess of a specified quantity overflows at themetering chamber 14 c, flows through the overflow path 12 b, and flowsinto the waste solution chamber 14 d. As a result, a specific quantityof the sample can be quantified at the metering chamber 14 c.

A first mixing chamber 14 f is provided downstream from the meteringchamber 14 c for mixing the sample which was quantified in the meteringchamber 14 c and a liquid first reagent, a specific quantity of whichwas sealed in advance in the first reagent chamber 14 e. A second mixingchamber 14 h is provided downstream from the first mixing chamber 14 ffor mixing the intermediate solution formulated in first mixing chamber14 f and a liquid second reagent, a specific quantity of which wassealed in advance in the second reagent chamber 14 g.

A measuring chamber 14 i is provided downstream from the second mixingchamber 14 h. A measured liquid formulated in the second mixing chamber14 h is stored in the measuring chamber 14 i. The detection and analysisof various components are carried out by a detecting and analyzingsection not shown in the figures.

Note that in this embodiment, a mixing tank 14 d is provided downstreamfrom the measuring chamber 14 i, the mixing tank 14 d communicating withthe measuring chamber 14 i via the liquid channel 12. As will beexplained in detail below, once the measured liquid inside the measuringchamber 14 i is sent to the mixing tank 14 d, by repeating as needed themixing operation, in which the liquid is sent back into the measuringchamber 14 i, the measured liquid can be sufficiently stirred and mixed,so that it is in a more suitable condition for detection and analysis.

Communicating holes, not shown in the figures, which are capable ofopening and closing and which communicate with the outside environment,are provided to each of the liquid chambers.

As shown in FIG. 3, the cover plate 13 of the liquid channel device 10Aincludes a first base layer 13 a which forms the front surface of thecover plate 13; a strongly adhered layer 13 b which is formed on theinner side of the first base layer 13 a; a second base layer 13 c whichis formed on the inner side of the strongly adhered layer 13 b; and aweakly adhered layer 13 d which is formed on the inner side of secondbase layer 13 c and which is adhered to a channel formation surface 12a.

The first base layer 13 a is made of a material that will bend when avertically directed (i.e., in the direction which intersects verticallywith the first base layer 13) load is applied on its front surface side,and which has restorative force that will return to its original stateonce the load is removed. In contrast, the second base layer 13 c ismade of a material which easily bends when the same load is subjected,but does not return to its original state even when the load is removed,i.e., a material which readily undergoes plastic deformation. Further,the adhesive strength of the strongly adhered layer 13 b is formed to begreater than that of the weakly adhered layer 13 d.

This liquid channel device 10A includes opening sections S1˜S7, forchanging a part of the liquid channel 12 from the closed state to theopen state, and a closing section T1 for changing a part of the liquidchannel 12 from the open state to the closed state.

In this embodiment, one of the opening sections S1˜S7 is disposed alongthe various liquid channels 12 between the sample introduction chamber14 a and the filtering chamber 14 b; between the filtering chamber 14 band the metering chamber 14 c; between the metering chamber 14 c and thefirst mixing chamber 14 f; between the first mixing chamber 14 f and thesecond mixing chamber 14 h; between the first reagent chamber 14 e andthe first mixing chamber 14 f; between the second reagent chamber 14 gand the second mixing chamber 14 h; and the second mixing chamber 14 hand the measuring chamber 14 i.

The closing section T1 is provided farther downstream than the openingsection S2 on the liquid channel 12 that is between the filteringchamber 14 b and the metering chamber 14 c.

S1 and S2 in FIG. 3 will now be used as examples for explaining thevarious opening sections S1˜S7. A first convex section 15 is formed tothe liquid channel 12. The top part 15 a of the first convex section 15and the weakly adhered layer 13 d are adhered together, and the stronglyadhered layer 13 b and the second base layer 13 c are separated from oneanother.

Thus, the liquid channel 12 at the various opening sections S1˜S7 isclosed off by the first convex section 15 and the weakly adhered layer13 d which is adhered to the top part 15 a of the first convex section15, and is typically in the closed state. However, as shown by theexample of opening section S1 in FIGS. 4A and 4B, when the first baselayer 13 a at the opening section S1 is pressed from the front surfacein the direction of arrow A, so that a vertically directed load isapplied to the first base layer 13 a, then, as shown in FIG. 4A, thefirst base layer 13 a bends and the strongly adhered layer 13 b on theinside of the first base layer 13 a adheres to the second base layer 13c. When the load is subsequently removed, then, as shown in FIG. 4B, thefirst base layer 13 a is restored to its original state due to itsrestorative force. At this time, the strongly adhered layer 13 b whichis adhered to the inside of the first base layer 13 a, the second baselayer 13 c which is adhered to the strongly adhered layer 13 b and iseasily elastically deformable, and the weakly adhered layer 13 d whichis adhered to the inside of the second base layer 13 c, are lifted upaccompanying the restoration of the first base layer 13 a. As a result,the space between the top part 15 a of the first convex section 15 andthe weakly adhered layer 13 d separates for the first time, so thatliquid can flow through.

In the thus-designed opening sections S1˜S7, a vertically directed loadis applied by pressing the cover plate 13 from the front surface.Subsequently, a pressing operation to remove the load is performed, sothat space separates between the top part 15 a of the first convexsection 15 and the weakly adhered layer 13 d which were originallyadhered together. As a result, the liquid channel 12 in this area opensfrom the closed mode.

A second convex section 16 is formed in the liquid channel 12 at theclosing section T1, as shown in FIG. 3. The top part 16 a of this secondconvex section 16 and the weakly adhered layer 13 d are separated fromone another, and a spacer 17 is interposed between the strongly adheredlayer 13 b and the second base layer 13 c. The spacer 17 and thestrongly adhered layer 13 b are adhered.

Thus, in the liquid channel 12 at the closing section T1, the channel ismaintained by the separation of space between the top part 16 a of thesecond convex section 16 and the weakly adhered layer 13 d, and istypically in the open state. However, as shown in FIG. 5A, when thefirst base layer 13 a at the closing section T1 is pressed from thefront surface in the direction of arrow B, so that a vertically directedload is applied to the first base layer 13 a, then the first base layer13 a bends and the weakly adhered layer 13 d on the inside of the coverplate 13 adheres to the top part 16 a of the second convex section 16.When the load is subsequently removed, then, as shown in FIG. 5B, thefirst base layer 13 a is restored to its original state due to itsrestorative force. At this time, the strongly adhered layer 13 b whichis adhered on the inside of the first base layer 13 a, and the spacer 17which is adhered to the strongly adhered layer 13 b, are lifted upaccompanying the restoration of the first base layer 13 a. The spacebetween the spacer 17 and the second base layer 13 c are not adhered,and the second base layer 13 c is easily plastically deformable, sothat, even if the load is removed, the second base layer 13 c and theweakly adhered layer 13 d do not follow the restoration of the firstbase layer 13 a. As a result, the top part 16 a of the second convexsection 16 and the weakly adhered layer 13 d are in an adhered state,thereby closing the liquid channel 12 so that the liquid cannot flowthrough.

In the thus-designed closing section T1, a vertically directed load isapplied by pressing the cover plate 13 from the front surface side. Byemploying a pressing operation to remove the load, the space between theoriginally separated top part 16 a of the second convex section 16 andthe weakly adhered layer 13 d adheres and closes. As a result, theliquid channel 12 in this area closes from the open mode.

In the liquid channel device 10A in this embodiment, the meteringchamber 14 c, first mixing chamber 14 f, second mixing chamber 14 h,measuring chamber 14 i, and mixing tank 14 d each have a liquidtransport section P1˜P5 for sending the liquid from inside to outsidethe various chambers.

Among the various liquid transport sections P1˜P5, the liquid transportsection P1 of the metering chamber 14 c sends the liquid inside meteringchamber 14 c downstream, i.e., toward the first mixing chamber 14 f.Similarly, the liquid transport section P2 of the first mixing chamber14 f sends the liquid inside first mixing chamber 14 f downstream, i.e.,toward the second mixing chamber 14 h. The liquid transport section P3of the second mixing chamber 14 h sends the liquid inside second mixingchamber 14 h downstream, i.e., toward the measuring chamber 14 i. Theliquid transport section P4 of the measuring chamber 14 i sends theliquid inside the measuring chamber 14 i downstream, i.e., toward themixing tank 14 d.

In contrast, the liquid transport section P5 of the mixing tank 14 dsends the liquid inside mixing tank 14 d upstream, i.e., toward themeasuring chamber 14 i.

Further, in this embodiment, in the cover plate 13 at the areacorresponding to the various liquid chambers having the liquid transportsections P1˜P5 (the cover plate at the part for closing the liquidchambers), the space between the strongly adhered layer 13 b and thesecond base layer 13 c is not separated, but rather has a spacer 17interposed there between. The spacer 17 and the strongly adhered layer13 b are adhered and the layers are tightly formed.

For this reason, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B and employing liquidtransport section P1 as an example, when the cover plate 13 at this areais pressed from the outside in the direction shown by arrow C (FIG. 6B),then the cover plate 13 at this pressed portion bends inward. As aresult, the internal capacity of the metering chamber 14 c becomessmaller, causing the liquid inside the metering chamber 14 c to beexpelled and transported, thereby realizing the function as the liquidtransport section P1. Hypothetically, if the space between the stronglyadhered layer 13 b and the second base layer 13 c is separated withoutinterposing a spacer 17, so that the layers are not tight, then it ispossible that the internal capacity of the metering chamber 14 c willnot be decreased simply by the adhesion of the strongly adhered layer 13b to the second base layer 13 c even when the cover plate 13 of thisportion is pressed from the outside. In this case, the function as aliquid transport section will not be realized.

In this embodiment, the metering chamber 14 c, first mixing chamber 14f, second mixing chamber 14 h and measuring chamber 14 i which are eachprovided with this type of liquid transport section P1˜P4, are alsoprovided with a reverse flow check G1˜G6 for stopping the reverse flowof the liquid sent from the liquid transport section P1˜P4 upstream, asshown in FIGS. 1 and 2. Thus, when the liquid transport sections P1˜P4are operated, the liquid inside the various chambers cannot undergoreverse flow but can only flow downstream.

In this embodiment, the reverse flow checks G1˜G6 are a flexible damplate 18.

For example, using the metering chamber 14 c as an example, as shown inFIGS. 6A, 6B and 7, at the boundary between the metering chamber 14 cand the liquid channel 12 on the upstream side of the metering chamber14 c, only the base end 18 b of the dam plate 18 is fixed to the floorof the liquid channel 12 so that the front end 18 a of the dam plate 18is directed downstream. The distal end 18 a and either lateral edges arenot fixed in place.

For this reason, when liquid is transported from the filtering chamber,not shown in the figures, to the metering chamber 14 c in FIGS. 6A, 6Band 7, the liquid can surpass the distal end 18 a of the dam plate 18and flow into the metering chamber 14 c.

On the other hand, when the liquid transport section P1 of meteringchamber 14 c operates, and the internal capacity of the metering chamber14 c decreases, the liquid inside the metering chamber 14 c can onlyflow downstream due to the disposition of this dam plate 18, and cannotflow upstream, i.e., undergo reverse flow toward the filtering chamber.

Note that the mixing tank 14 d is provided for sufficiently stirring andmixing the measured liquid by bringing the measured liquid from andsending the measured liquid to the upstream measuring chamber 14 i asdescribed above. Thus, it is not necessary to provide a reverse flowcheck for preventing reverse flow of the liquid upstream to the mixingtank 14 d.

As a specific method for formulating the measured liquid using theliquid channel device 10A, first the liquid channel device 10A is placedso that the sample introduction chamber 14 a is positioned upward andthe measuring chamber 14 i is positioned downward, so that the liquideasily flows from upstream to downstream under the force of gravity.

The sample is sampled in a syringe or the like, the needle of thesyringe is pierced into the cover plate 13 at the portion correspondingto the sample introduction chamber 14 a of the syringe, and the sampleis injected into the sample introduction chamber 14 a. Thereafter, theopening section S1 which is provided into between the sampleintroduction chamber 14 a and the filtering chamber 14 b is subjected topressing as described above, i.e., has a load applied by pressing thefront surface of the first base layer 13 a. The load is subsequentlyremoved, and the liquid channel 12 at this portion is rendered in theopen state, so that the sample is introduced to the filtering chamber 14b by the force of gravity.

The pressing operation may be carried out by means of the operator usinghis finger to perform a pressing action from the front surface of thefirst base layer 13 a, or by employing a preprogrammed pressing devicein which the pressing position is defined by XY coordinates, andpressing in a specific position.

Once filtering has been carried out at filtering chamber 14 b, theopening section S2 which is provided in between the filtering chamber 14b and the metering chamber 14 c is operated by pressing, so that theliquid channel 12 in this area is opened, and the sample is introducedinto the metering chamber 14 c under the force of gravity.

Once a specific amount of sample is held and quantified at the meteringchamber 14 c, the closing section T1 that is provided in between thefiltering chamber 14 b and the metering chamber 14 c is operated bypressing, so that the liquid channel 12 in this area is closed. In thisway, the further introduction into the metering chamber 14 c of liquidfrom upstream is prevented. Thus, by operating the opening section S3that is provided downstream from the metering chamber 14 c by pressing,it is possible to open the liquid channel 12 in this area. Next, theliquid transport section P1 is operated by applying external pressure tothe cover plate 13 in the area covering the metering chamber 14 c. Thequantified sample is thus introduced into the first mixing chamber 14 fdue to the force of gravity and the action of the liquid transportsection P1.

The thus quantified sample is introduced into the first mixing chamber14 f, and the opening section S4 in between the first reagent chamber 14e and the first mixing chamber 14 f is operated by pressing so that thefirst reagent is introduced into the first mixing chamber 14 f. Thesample and the first reagent are mixed in the first mixing chamber 14 f,to formulate an intermediate solution.

Next, the opening section S5 in between the first mixing chamber 14 fand the second mixing chamber 14 h is operated by pressing so that theliquid channel 12 in the areas is opened. Next, the liquid transportsection P2 is operated in the same manner as the liquid transportsection P1. The intermediate solution formulated at the first mixingchamber 14 f is introduced into the second mixing chamber 14 h throughthe force of the gravity and the action of liquid transport section P2.The opening section S6 in between the second reagent chamber 14 g andthe second mixing chamber 14 h is operated by pressing so that thesecond reagent is introduced into second mixing chamber 14 h. Theintermediate solution and the second reagent are mixed in the secondmixing chamber 14 h, to formulate a measured liquid.

Next, the opening section S7 which is provided in between the secondmixing chamber 14 h and the measuring chamber 14 i is operated bypressing, so that the liquid channel 12 in this area is opened. Next,the liquid transport section P3 is operated, and the measured liquidformulated in second mixing chamber 14 h is introduced into themeasuring chamber 14 i through the force of gravity and the action ofthe liquid transport section P3.

Next, the liquid transport section P4 is operated and the measuredliquid inside the measured chamber 14 i is transported at once to themixing tank 14 d. Next, the liquid transport section P5 is operated totransport the measured liquid inside the mixing tank 14 d back to themeasuring chamber 14 i. This mixing operation is repeated as necessaryuntil the measured liquid is sufficiently stirred and mixed. This isthen supplied to the detecting and analyzing section for each liquidchannel device 10A, and detection and measurement of the targetcomponents is carried out on the measured liquid inside the measuringchamber 14 i.

Note that when the liquid transport sections P1˜P5 are operated and theliquid is made to flow into the liquid channel 12 of the liquid channeldevice 10A, it is optimal to suitably open and close the communicatingholes, not shown in the figures, which are provided to the variousliquid chambers so that the liquid flows more smoothly. For example, thecover plate 13 in the area corresponding to the metering chamber 14 c ispressed when operating the liquid transport section P1. Next, thecommunicating holes provided in the metering chamber 14 c are switchedfrom the closed to the open state prior to releasing the pressure. Next,by releasing the pressing force, the pressure inside the meteringchamber 14 c is reduced and the liquid transported downstream can beprevented from flowing backward into the metering chamber 14 c.

According to the liquid channel device 10A, the liquid transportsections P1˜P5 for transporting the liquid inside the liquid chambersare provided to the metering chamber 14 c, the first mixing chamber 14f, the second mixing chamber 14 h, the measuring chamber 14 i and themixing chamber 14 d, respectively. As a result, easy and smooth flow ofthe liquid can be accomplished and it is not necessary to separatelyprovide a device for forcing flow of the liquid, even in the case wherethe sample, intermediate solution and measured liquid are viscous and donot readily flow through the liquid channel 12.

Further, the liquid transport sections P1˜P5 are provided with a designwhich utilizes the cover plate 13 of the liquid channel device 10A.Thus, it is not necessary to newly prepare a separate material for theliquid transport sections P1˜P5. Thus, low cost and simple constructionis achieved. In addition, since the liquid transport sections P1˜P5 areoperated by simple pressing alone, operability is superior.

Further, in this embodiment, a dam plate 18 is provided to serve asreverse flow checks G1˜G6 to the metering chamber 14 c, the first mixingchamber 14 f, the second mixing chamber 14 h, and the measuring chamber14 i which are provided to the liquid transport sections P1˜P4,respectively. For this reason, when the liquid transport sections P1˜P4are operated, the liquid does not undergo reverse flow upstream.

Further, the liquid channel device 10A of this embodiment is providedwith opening sections S1˜S7 which open the liquid channel 12 from theclosed mode, and the closing section T1 which closes the liquid channel12 from the open mode. The flow of the liquid in the liquid channel 12can thus be controlled, making it possible to quickly carry out a highlyaccurate detection and analysis.

For example, a closing section T1 is provided upstream and an openingsection S3 is provided downstream from the metering chamber 14 c in thisembodiment. As a result, it is possible to quickly and accuratelyquantify the sample, and introduce it into the first mixing chamber 14f. If, hypothetically, a opening section S3 was not provided downstreamfrom the metering chamber 14 c so that the liquid channel 12 in thisarea was always in the open state, then the sample would continuously beflowing out from the metering chamber 14 c even during the process ofquantification. Accordingly, quantification would become difficultbecause it would not be possible to hold a specific quantity of thesample. In addition, when a closing section T1 is not provided upstreamfrom the metering chamber 14 c, then, depending on the amount of sampleinjected into the sample introduction chamber 14 a, the sample which haspassed through the filtering chamber 14 b may continue to flow into themetering chamber 14 c even after a specific quantity of sampleaccumulates in the metering chamber 14 c. Thus, quantification itselfmay of course become difficult. On this point, when a closing section T1is provided upstream from the metering chamber 14 c as in thisembodiment, then, even if the entire amount of sample that passedthrough the filter 14 b has not completely finished flowing into themetering chamber 14 c, it is possible to operated the closing section T1at the point in time when a fixed quantity of sample has been quantifiedin the metering chamber 14 c, thereby preventing further flow of sampleinto the metering chamber 14 c. The sample can thus be accurately andquickly quantified.

Further, in this embodiment, a opening section S5 is provided in betweenthe first mixing chamber 14 f and the second mixing chamber 14 h, and aopening section S7 is provided in between the second mixing chamber 14 hand the measuring chamber 14 i. For this reason, once the targetedmixing and reaction has progressed sufficiently in the first mixingchamber 14 f and the second mixing chamber 14 h, these opening sectionsS5, S7 are opened and the liquid transport sections P2, P3 are operated,so that the intermediate solution and the measured liquid can each beintroduced into the second mixing chamber 14 h and the measuring chamber14 i, respectively. Thus, it is possible to prevent a deterioration inthe accuracy of the detection and analysis which is caused byinsufficient mixing and reaction.

Further, in this embodiment, opening sections S4,S6 are provided inbetween the first reagent chamber 14 e and the first mixing chamber 14f, and the second reagent chamber 14 g and the second mixing chamber 14h. As a result, these opening sections are opened at the desired pointin time, and the first reagent and the second reagent, which are sealedin advance in the first reagent chamber 14 e and the second reagentchamber 14 g respectively, can be introduced into the first mixingchamber 14 f and the second mixing chamber 14 h. Hypothetically, ifthese opening sections S4, S6 were not provided, then there would be aconcern that the first reagent and the second reagent would begin toflow downstream during maintenance and the like of the liquid channeldevice 10A.

The opening sections S1˜S7 and the closing section T1 of the liquidchannel device 10A are made by incorporating a first convex section 15,and a second convex section 16, which are formed to the liquid channel12, and the cover plate 13. For this reason, it is not necessary tonewly prepare a separate member for opening or closing the liquidchannel 12. Thus, low cost and a simple structure can be achieved.Further, operability is superior since the opening and closing operationcan be performed by a simple pressing operation.

Note that in the liquid channel device 10A described in the precedingexample, the metering chamber 14 c, the first mixing chamber 14 f, thesecond mixing chamber 14 h, the measuring chamber 14 i, and the mixingchamber 14 d are each provided with the liquid transport section P1˜P5.However, it is also acceptable not to provide all of these liquidchambers with a liquid transport section. In addition, it is alsoacceptable to provide a liquid transport section to liquid chambersother than those cited here. In other words, it is acceptable tosuitably determine which liquid chambers to provide with a liquidtransport section depending on the type and characteristics of thesample and the reagents, etc. For example, this embodiment described anarrangement in which, when formulating a measured liquid using theliquid channel device 10A, the liquid channel device 10A is firstdisposed so that the sample introduction chamber 14 a is directed upwardand the measuring chamber 14 i is directed downward so that the liquidreadily flows from upstream to downstream under the force of gravity,and, with this arrangement in place, liquid transport sections P1˜P5 arealso utilized in transporting the liquid, i.e., the liquid is made toflow through a combination of the force of gravity and the action of theliquid transport sections. However, by providing liquid transportsections to all the liquid chambers, it is also possible to design aliquid channel device that can transport a liquid without utilizinggravity.

Further, an embodiment was provided in which nine liquid chambers wereformed in this liquid channel device 10A. However, the type, number,disposition sequence and the like can be suitably adjusted according tothe objects.

In the liquid channel device 10A of this embodiment, a dam plate 18 isemployed for the reverse flow checks G1˜G6 which are disposed to theliquid chambers which are provided with liquid transport sections P1˜P4.However, the present invention is not limited to this embodiment of areverse flow check. Rather, embodiments other than dam plate 18 areacceptable. When a dam plate 18 is provided, two or more dam plate 18may be disposed in a series, or a design which more effectively willobtain the reverse flow check effect may be used. Alternatively, the damplate 18 may be combined with other reverse flow checks.

In place of providing reverse flow checks G1˜G6, a closing section forclosing the liquid channel 12 from the open mode may be provided atthese sites. By operating the closing section before actuating theliquid transport sections P1˜P4, the liquid can be prevented fromflowing back upstream.

The embodiment which employs a closing section for the objective ofchecking flow in this way is particularly effective in the case themetering chamber has an overflow section including an overflow pathwhich communicates with the metering chamber and a waste solutionchamber which is provided downstream from the overflow path. In thistype of metering chamber, sample which exceeds a specific quantity inthe metering chamber overflows and flows down the overflow path and intothe waste solution chamber. As a result, it is possible to quantify aspecific amount of sample in the metering chamber. For this reason, itis necessary that the sample flow smoothly into the overflow path fromthe metering chamber during quantification. On the other hand, whenoperating the liquid transport section that is provided to the meteringchamber to send the quantified sample downstream, the sample must beprevented from flowing into the overflow path from the metering chamber.As explained, a reverse flow check cannot be provided a place throughwhich the sample flows in both directions. Accordingly, it is preferableto provide the closing section to such a place in order to make theplace be closed only when necessary.

FIG. 8 shows a second embodiment of the liquid channel device accordingto the present invention. As in the case of the liquid channel device10A explained above, this liquid channel device 10B is formed by formingthe groove-like liquid channel 12, through which the liquid is thesample and/or the reagent flows, and a plurality of liquid chambers (14a, 14 e˜14 h, 14J, 14 k, 14 m) for holding the liquid at either end or apart of the liquid channel 12, to one surface of the base plate 11B madeof a fan-shaped flat plate, and laminating the cover plate 13 to thechannel formation surface 12 a which is on the side of the base plate 11where the liquid channel 12 is formed. In this liquid channel device10B, when the upper end as shown in FIG. 8 is rotated about the center,the sample flows under centrifugal force in the direction of the arrowF′ from the upstream end toward the downstream end of the liquid channel12. Various treatments and mixing with reagents are carried out alongthe way, to form the measured liquid.

In other words, the sample introduction chamber 14 a in which theintroduced sample is held is provided to the upstream end of the liquidchannel 12, and a first mixing chamber 14 f is provided downstream fromthe sample introduction chamber 14 a for mixing the first reagent fromthe first reagent chamber 14 e, the second reagent from the secondreagent chamber 14 g and the sample from the sample introduction chamber14 a, to formulate an intermediate solution.

A second mixing chamber 14 h is provided downstream from the firstmixing chamber 14 f for mixing the third reagent from the third reagentchamber 14 j, the fourth reagent from the fourth reagent chamber 14 k,and the intermediate solution from the first mixing chamber 14 f.

In this embodiment, the second mixing chamber 14 h is employed as ameasuring chamber, and detection and analysis of various components iscarried out using the detecting and analyzing section not shown in thefigures on the measured liquid which was formulated in the second mixingchamber 14 h.

In this embodiment, a waste solution chamber 14 m is formed in which themeasured liquid is stored after being measured at the second mixingchamber 14 h.

Note that communicating holes, not shown in the figures, whichcommunicate with the air are provided to the various liquid chambers.

Further, in this liquid channel device 10B, the cover plate 13 has thesame structure as shown in FIG. 3 for the case of the above-describedliquid channel device 10A, i.e., has the first base layer 13 a formingthe front surface of the cover plate 13, the strongly adhered layer 13 bwhich is formed on the inside of the first base layer 13 a, the secondbase layer 13 c formed to the inside of the strongly adhered layer 13 b,and the weakly adhered layer 13 d which is formed to the inside of thesecond base layer 13 c and is adhered to the channel formation surface.

Opening sections S8˜S14 for opening the liquid channel 12 from theclosed mode are disposed respectively between the sample introductionchamber 14 a and the first mixing chamber 14 f; between the first samplechamber 14 e and the first mixing chamber 14 f; between the secondsample chamber 14 g and the first mixing chamber 14 f; between the firstmixing chamber 14 f and the second mixing chamber 14 h; between thethird sample chamber 14 j and the second mixing chamber 14 h; betweenthe fourth sample chamber 14 k and the second mixing chamber 14 h; andbetween the second mixing chamber 14 h and the waste solution chamber 14m.

A closing section T2 is provided downstream from the opening section S8in the liquid channel 12 between the sample introduction chamber 14 aand the first mixing chamber 14 f.

As in the case of the liquid channel device 10A, in the various openingsections S8˜S14, the first convex section 15 is formed to the liquidchannel 12, as shown in FIG. 3. The top part 15 a of the first convexsection 15 and the weakly adhere layer 13 d are adhered and the stronglyadhered layer 13 b and the second base layer 13 c are separated. Thesecond convex section 16 is formed to the liquid channel 12 at theclosing section T2. The top part 16 a of the first convex section 16 andthe weakly adhered layer 13 d are separated from one another. The spacer17 is interposed between the strongly adhered layer 13 b and the secondbase layer 13 c. The spacer 17 and the strongly adhered layer 13 b areadhered.

When formulating the measured liquid using the liquid channel device10B, first, the liquid channel device 10B is set in a centrifuge so thatthe sample introduction chamber 14 a side is positioned on therotational center side and the measuring chamber 14 i is positioned onthe outer periphery side of the rotation.

Next, the sample is sampled using a syringe or the like, and the syringeneedle is used to pierce the cover plate 13 in the area corresponding tothe sample introduction chamber 14 a and inject the sample into thesample introduction chamber 14 a. Next, the centrifuge is operated togenerate a centrifugal force that acts from the center of rotation tothe outer periphery. As a result of this centrifugal force, the liquidstarts to flow from upstream to downstream.

Next, in the same manner as in the case of the liquid channel device10A, pressing is applied to the opening section S8 which is provided inbetween the sample introduction chamber 14 a and the first mixingchamber 14 f, so that the liquid channel 12 in this area is opened tothe from the closed mode and the sample is introduced into the firstmixing chamber 14 f under the centrifugal force.

The sample is introduced into the first mixing chamber 14 f as thecentrifugal force is being generated in this way. Meanwhile, the openingsection S9 in between the first sample chamber 14 e and the first mixingchamber 14 f is activated by pressing, to introduce the first reagent,which was sealed in advance, into the first mixing chamber 14 f. Next,the opening section S10 in between the second reagent chamber 14 g andthe first mixing chamber 14 f is activated by pressing, to introduce thesecond reagent, which was sealed in advance, into the first mixingchamber 14 f. The sample, the first reagent and the second reagent aremixed in the first mixing chamber 14 f.

At this time, as necessary, the closing section T2 may be operated priorto the entire sample flowing completely into the first mixing chamber 14f, so that overflow of the sample into the first mixing chamber 14 f canbe prevented.

Next, the opening section S11 in between the first mixing chamber 14 fand the second mixing chamber 14 h is operated by pressing, to introducethe intermediate solution formulated in the first mixing chamber 14 finto the second mixing chamber 14 h. Meanwhile, the opening section S12in between the third reagent chamber 14 j and the second mixing chamber14 h, and the opening section S13 in between the fourth reagent chamber14 k and the second mixing chamber 14 h are operated by pressing, tointroduce the third reagent and the fourth reagent, which were sealed inadvance, into the second mixing chamber 14 h. The intermediate solution,the third reagent and the fourth reagent are mixed in the second mixingchamber 14 h.

Next, the liquid channel device 10B is supplied to the detecting andanalyzing section, and detection and analysis of the target componentsis carried out on the measured liquid formulated in the second mixingchamber.

Once the detection and analysis is completed, the opening section S14 isoperated and liquid on which measurements are completed can be discardedto the waste solution chamber 14 m.

This type of liquid channel device 10B is provided with opening sectionsS8˜S14 opening the liquid channel 12 from the closed mode, and a closingsection T2 for closing the liquid channel 12 from the open mode. As aresult, it is possible to control the flow of the liquid in the liquidchannel 12, so that detection and analysis can be carried out over ashort time with good accuracy.

Further, the opening sections S8˜S14 and the closing section T2 are lowcost and simple in design, and can be operated by means of simplepressing alone.

Note that the pressing operation applied to the opening sections S8˜S14and closing section T2 may be carried out manually in the case of theliquid channel device 10B of this embodiment. However, if the pressureis applied by means of a pressure disk that is in contact with the frontsurface of the cover plate 13 of the liquid channel device 10B, then itis possible to carry out continuous pressing to a plurality of liquidchannel devices 10B, which is preferable.

FIG. 9 shows a method for using a pressure disk 21 to carry out pressingto a plurality (six in this embodiment) of the fan-shaped (centralangle) α=60° liquid channel devices 10B which are aligned in a circleand set on the base 20 of a centrifuge. The pressure disk 21 of thisembodiment is installed on an arm 23 that extends laterally from therotational axis 22 of the centrifuge for rotating the liquid channeldevices 10B. While rotating about arm 23, this pressure disk 21 movesalong the longitudinal direction of the arm 23 (the radial direction ofrotation of the liquid channel device) from the center to the outerperiphery of rotation of the liquid channel device 10B. The pressuredisk 21 undergoes which movement while the liquid channel device 10B isrotated by the centrifuge. As a result, the pressure disk 21 scans in arelatively spiraling pattern from the center to the outer periphery ofrotation on the liquid channel devices 10B which are aligned in acircle, and pressing can be applied sequentially to the opening sectionsS8˜14 and the closing section T2 that are provided on these liquidchannel devices 10B.

Note that the above explanation employed a method in which the coverplate 13 was pierced with a syringe needle as an example of a method forinjecting the sample into the sample introduction chamber 14 a of theliquid channel devices 10A, 10B. However, for example, it is alsoacceptable to form a sample injection hole in the cover plate 13 inadvance, and to then inject the sample from there. In this case, aprotective tape may be used to cover the sample injection hole, with theinjection carried out by piercing the protective tape with the syringe.Alternatively, it is also acceptable to peel off the protective tape andthen carry out the injection by introducing the syringe into the sampleinjection hole.

A plate made from glass or a resin such as styrene resin, acrylic resin,polycarbonate resin, vinyl chloride resin, PEN resin, polyester resin,epoxy resin, phenol resin, ABS resin, polypropylene resin,fiber-reinforced plastic or the like, may be employed in the base plate11A, 11B in which the liquid channel 12 and liquid chambers are formedin the above-described liquid channel devices 10A, 10B. Among these, aglass plate, styrene resin, acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, vinylchloride resin, PEN resin, and polyester resin are preferred becausethey are transparent and enable visual inspection of the condition ofthe liquid flowing through the liquid channel 12 from the base plate11A, 11B side. Resin plates are preferred over a glass plate as they donot readily break and are easier to handle.

The thickness of the base plate 11A, 11B is not particularly restricted,but may be determined based on the depth of the liquid channel 12 whichis formed therein. Typically, the thickness is 0.5˜7 mm

The liquid channel 12 and the liquid chambers are formed in the shape ofa groove to one side of the base plates 11A, 11B using a technique suchas photolithography, injection molding, blow molding, bonding, fusion,cutting, machining or the like.

The cross-sectional shape (i.e., cross-sectional in the directionperpendicular to flow) of the liquid channel 12 is not particularlyrestricted. For example, semi-circle, square, or inverted triangle isall acceptable shapes which may be cited. The width and depth of theliquid channel 12 are not particularly restricted, and may be determinedbased on the liquid flow volume which is to be obtained. A width anddepth in the range of from 10 to 5,000 um is preferred as the liquidflows with low channel resistance and a small volume of liquid can bemade to flow.

Further, in order to facilitate the flow of the liquid in the liquidchannel 12, it is preferable to carry out surface processing in responseto the type of liquid. Examples of such surface treatments includecoating treatments with a coating material, plasma treatment, frametreatment, chemical treatment, biologically active treatment, antibodytreatment and the like. Further, as necessary, it is also acceptable toprovide a baffle, stirring plate, or projection, and form a divide, sothat the flowing liquid has a uniform mixing state.

The shape of the various chambers is not particularly restricted.Rather, the chambers may be suitably formed according to the capacity,etc., required of each.

The various dam plates may be formed of a flexible resin sheet anddisposed at specific sites, and, when forming the liquid channel 12 orliquid chambers, may be formed in a unitary manner from the base plate11A.

The first base layer 13 a possesses a restorative force which returns itto its original state after bending when a vertically directed load isapplied from the front surface thereof. Any material may be employed asthe first base layer 13 a provided it is one which has thesecharacteristics, i.e., flexibility and restorative force. The materialand thickness thereof are not particularly restricted. Films having athickness in a range of from 50 to 500 um, and being made ofpolyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyethylene naphthalate (PEN),polycarbonate (PC), polyimide and the like, are preferable for use asthe first base layer 13 a due to their suitable properties offlexibility and restorative force.

For the second base layer 13 c, on the other hand, a material isacceptable which can easily bend as a result of a vertically directedload, with a material lacking restorative force being more preferable.Any base material having these properties may be employed for secondbase layer 13 c. The material and thickness thereof are not particularlyrestricted. Films having a thickness in a range of from 5 to 50 μm, andbeing made of metal foils such as aluminum foil or copper foil, paper,or resins such as PET, PEN, PC or polyimide are preferred for use as thesecond base layer 13 c. Where employing paper, it is preferable to use apaper that has been treated for resistance to water. In the case ofmetal foil, it is preferable to use a metal foil that has been treatedfor rust resistance.

The material for the strongly adhered layer 13 b and the weakly adheredlayer 13 d can be suitably selected from among conventional adhesiveagents in response to the material for first base layer 13 a and thesecond base layer 13 c. In this case, the adhesive force (adhesivestrength) of the adhesive agent forming the strongly adhered layer 13 bneeds to be stronger than the adhesive force of the adhesive agentforming the weakly adhered layer 13 d. When the adhesive force of theadhesive agent forming the strongly adhered layer 13 b is less than theadhesive force of the adhesive agent forming the weakly adhered layer 13d, it is not possible to separate the top part 15 a of the first convexsection 15 and the weakly adhered layer 13 d when pressing on theopenings section S1˜S14. As a result, the liquid channel 12 cannot beopened. It is preferable that the adhesive force of the adhesive agentforming the strongly adhered layer 13 b be 0.1 N/cm or more greater thanthe adhesive force of the adhesive agent forming the weakly adheredlayer 13 d, with a value in the range of 0.1˜30 N/cm being morepreferred. When the adhesive force of the adhesive agent forming thestrongly adhered layer 13 b is 0.1 N/cm or more than the adhesive forceof the adhesive agent forming the weakly adhered layer 13 d, the openingsections S1˜S14 can be operated with certainty. On the other hand, whenthe difference in the adhesive forces exceeds 30 N/cm, it becomesdifficult to form the adhesive layers.

For this reason, it is preferable to set the adhesive force of thestrongly adhered layer 13 b to be in the range of 1˜30 N/cm, and of theweakly adhered layer 13 d to be in the range of 0.05˜5 N/cm.

Examples of adhesive agents employed in the strongly adhered layer 13 band the weakly adhered layer 13 d which may be cited include acrylics,rubbers, polyurethanes, polyesters, silicon-based adhesive agents andthe like. Among these, an acrylic or rubber may be used for the stronglyadhered layer 13 b, with non-woven cloth or polyester fiber used as thewick material. Acrylic adhesive agents or silicon-based adhesive agentsare preferably employed for the weakly adhered layer 13 b. In order tomaintain the difference between the adhesive force of the stronglyadhered layer 13 b and the weakly adhered layer 13 d within theabove-described suitable range, methods may be cited such as suitablyadjusting the glass transition temperature of the resin forming thevarious adhesive agents, including additives in the adhesive such astackifiers, curing agents or wick material, and adjusting the amount ofthese additives.

The thickness of the strongly adhered layer 13 b and the weakly adheredlayer 13 d is not limited, but generally in a range of from 10 to 100μm.

Note that the term “adhesive force” as employed here is defined as theadhesive strength at 180° peeling from a stainless plate as specified inJIS Z 0237.

In addition to resins such as PET, PEN, PC, acrylic resin, epoxy resin,phenol resin, polyurethane resin and the like, paper or the like mayalso be employed for the spacer 17. The thickness of the spacer 17 isnot particularly restricted. However, when the thickness is in the rangeof 50˜2,000 um, the strongly adhered layer 13 b and the second baselayer 13 c can be separated with certainty prior to the operating theopening sections S1˜S14, and the strongly adhered layer 13 b and thesecond base layer 13 c can be adhered with certainty during theoperation.

Third Embodiment

In the liquid channel device 10A according to the first embodimentexplained above, the liquid transport sections P1˜P5 were exemplified byan arrangement in which pressing was applied from the outside to thecover plate 13 in the area corresponding to the liquid chambers, causingthe cover plate 13 to bend in this area and decreasing the capacity ofthe liquid chamber and thereby transporting the liquid. In the thirdembodiment, an explanation is made of a liquid transport section inwhich external pressing is applied to the floor of the liquid chamberrather than to the cover plate 13, thereby decreasing the capacity ofthe liquid chamber and transporting the liquid inside the liquidchamber.

FIGS. 10A and 10B show the essential components including the meteringchamber 14 c having a liquid transport section P1′ for a liquid channeldevice 10C according to the third embodiment which is equipped with nineliquid chambers in the same manner as in the first embodiment.

In this embodiment, the base plate 11B is made of the three layers of anouter layer 11 e, a middle layer 11 f which is laminated on the insideof the outer layer 11 e, and an inner layer 11 g which is laminated onthe inside of the middle layer 11 f.

The top part of the liquid chambers (only metering chamber 14 c is shownin this embodiment), the liquid channel 12, the first convex section 15,and the second convex section 16 are formed to the inner layer 11 g.

The bottom part of the liquid chambers is formed to the middle layer 11f, and this middle layer 11 f forms the floor of the liquid channel 12.

The outer layer 11 e is disposed to the outermost side of the base plate11B and forms the floor of the liquid chamber. In this embodiment, theliquid transport section P1′ operates when external pressing is appliedto the floor of the liquid chamber as shown by arrow C′, causing theouter layer 11 e which forms the floor of the liquid chamber to bendinward and decrease the internal capacity of the metering chamber 14 cas a result.

In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 11, a dam plate 18 is formed as areverse flow check in the inner layer 11 g. In the dam plate 18 in thisembodiment, the base end 18 b is fixed to one side wall of the liquidchannel 12 and the distal end 18 a and the lateral ends are not fixed inplace, so that the distal end 18 a of the dam plate 18 is directeddownstream at the boundary of the metering chamber 14 c and the liquidchannel 12 upstream there from.

For this reason, when the liquid is transported from the upstream filterchamber, not shown, into the metering chamber 14 c, the liquid surpassesthe distal end 18 a of the dam plate 18 and can flow into the meteringchamber 14 c. When the liquid transport P1′ of the metering chamber 14 coperates, the liquid inside the metering chamber 14 c can only flowdownstream, and cannot undergo reverse flow upstream, due to the actionof the dam plate 18.

The base plate 11B of this embodiment can be formed as shown in FIG. 12.First, the sheet 11 g′ for forming the inner layer 11 g is prepared inadvance. The site corresponding to the liquid channel 12 in this sheet11 g′ is punched out in a linear form, and the area corresponding to thetop part of the liquid chamber is punched out in the shape of a hole.Further, in this case, the areas forming the first convex section 15 andthe second convex section 16 are not punched out but rather are leftremaining, and polishing or the like is employed to adjust the height ofthe second convex section 16 so that the height of the second convexsection 16 is less than that of the first convex section 15. Further, inthis embodiment, the dam plate 18 is also formed from the inner layer 11g, so that the area forming the dam plate 18 is not punched out but isleft remaining in the sheet 11 g′.

The sheet 11 f′ for forming the middle layer 11 f is prepared inadvance. The sites corresponding to the bottom parts of the meteringchamber 14 c and the other chambers are punched out in the form of ahole in the sheet 11 f′.

Next, the sheet 11 e′ forming the outer layer 11 e is prepared inadvance, and the sheet 11 f forming the middle layer 11 f and the sheet11 g′ forming the inner layer 11 g are laminated and adhered to thesheet 11 e′, thereby forming the base plate 11B as a result.

For the material for the various sheets 11 e′, 11 f′, 11 g′, a selectionmay be made from among the materials employed for the base plate 11Aexemplified in the first embodiment. In particular, the sheet 11 e′forms the floor of the liquid chamber and is subjected to externalpressing during operation of the liquid transport section. Accordingly,it is necessary to use a material having flexibility.

In addition, the thickness of the sheet 11 g′ corresponds to the depthof the liquid channel 12 which is formed, with the sum of thethicknesses of the sheet 11 g′ and the sheet 11 f′ corresponding to thetotal depth of the liquid chamber. Thus, the thicknesses of the sheet 11f′ and the sheet 11 g′ is determined after taking into consideration thedepth which is obtained for the liquid chamber and the liquid channel12. The depth of the liquid chamber may be suitably set in response tothe required capacity. Further, the optimal depth of the liquid channel12 is within the same range as in the first embodiment. The sheet 11 e′is required to bend during the operation of the transport section asdescribed above. Accordingly, while it will depend on the material, avalue in the range of 20˜300 μm is ideal.

The base plate 11B may be formed from two layers consisting of outerlayer 11 e and inner layer 11 g, in which the sheet 11 e′ and the sheet11 g′ are laminated. In this case, the depth of the liquid channel 12and liquid chamber are the same.

In the liquid channel device 10C according to this embodiment, in orderto more effectively operate the liquid transport section P1′, the outerlayer 11 e of the base plate 11B in the area corresponding to themetering chamber 14 c, i.e., the floor of the metering chamber 14 c, maybe expanded in the outer direction, as shown in FIG. 13. By expandingthe floor in this way, the internal capacity of the metering chamber 14c can be further decreased when pressing this area inward in the casewhere operating the liquid transport section P1′. As a result, theliquid in the metering chamber 14 c can be more effectively transported.

The liquid channel device 10C according to the third embodiment can beobtained by providing a cover plate 13 with the same design as in thefirst embodiment to this type of base plate 11B. Namely, in thisembodiment, as shown in FIG. 10A and FIG. 10B, the strongly adheredlayer 13 b and the second base layer 13 c are not separated from oneanother in the cover plate 13 at the area corresponding to the meteringchamber 14 c. Rather, a spacer 17 is interposed, and the spacer 17 andthe strongly adhered layer 13 b are adhered and the layers are tightlyformed. For this reason, when external pressing is applied to the floorof the metering chamber 14 c and the floor bends, causing the liquidtransport section P1′ to operate, the internal capacity of the meteringchamber 14 c is decreased and the function as a liquid transport sectionis realized. Here, hypothetically, if there was a space of separationbetween the strongly adhered layer 13 b and the second base layer 13 cand the spacer 17 was not interposed so that the layers were not tight,then the second base layer 13 c and the weakly adhered layer 13 d wouldnot bend toward the outside based on the inner pressure of the meteringchamber 14 c when external pressing is applied to the floor of themetering chamber 14 c. Thus, the internal capacity of the meteringchamber 14 c would not decrease, and it is possible that the effect asthe liquid transport section could not be realized.

In a liquid channel device 10C of this type, base plate 11B is made ofthree layers, namely the outer layer 11 e, the middle layer 11 f and theinner layer 11 g, or two layers, namely the outer layer 11 e and theinner layer 11 g. The liquid chambers, liquid channel 12, dam plate 18,first convex section 15 and second convex section 16 are formed bypunching out sheet 11 f which forms the middle layer 11 f and sheet 11g′ which forms the inner layer 11 g. For this reason, the liquidchambers, etc. can be formed simply and at low production cost, enablinglarge volume production, as compared to a method in whichphotolithography or the like is employed to form the liquid chamber andliquid channel to a base plate made of a single flat plate, or a methodfor molding a base plate in which the liquid chamber and liquid channelare formed using injection molding.

Note that the first through third embodiments explained above show asexamples liquid channel devices 10A, 10B, 10C in which the liquidchannel 12 is formed to only one side of the base plates 11A, 11B.However, the liquid channel 12 may be formed to both sides of the baseplates 11A, 11B.

There are no restrictions on the arrangement for the communicating holeswhich can be opened/closed which are provided to the various liquidchambers. Namely, an embodiment is acceptable in which the communicatingholes can be opened and closed by removing and placing an engageable capin the communicating holes formed in the cover plate. It is alsoacceptable to provide opening sections and a closing section having thesame structure as the opening sections S1˜S7 and the closing section T1provided to the liquid channel 12.

In the case where a base plate 11A is made of a single flat plate as inthe first embodiment, it is acceptable to provide a liquid transportsection to the liquid chamber which is operated by pressing the floor ofthe liquid chamber. When the base plate 11B is formed from a pluralityof layers as in the third embodiment, a liquid transport section whichis operated by pressing the cover plate 13 corresponding to the liquidchamber may be provided to the liquid chamber. Further, the explanationabove employed the example of a liquid channel device provided with aclosing section and opening sections, and therefore exemplified a designfor the cover plate 13 comprising the first base layer 13 a, stronglyadhered layer 13 b, second base layer 13 c, weakly adhered layer 13 dand spacer 17. However, it is not necessary for the cover plate 13 to beformed of a plurality of layers in this way in order to actuate theliquid transfer section. Rather, it is also acceptable if cover plate 13is comprised of a single layer.

Further, the preceding example illustrated an embodiment which utilizedgravitational force and the action of a liquid transport section inorder to cause the liquid to flow. However, it is also acceptable toincorporate a method for causing movement and flow of the liquid byheating the liquid channel 12, a portion of the liquid chamber, or bothto expand the air inside the liquid channel 12 or inside the liquidchamber, or a method for causing movement and flow of the liquid bysealing an oxygen absorbing agent (such as readily oxidizable ironpowder, etc.) inside a portion of the liquid channel 12 and causing areduction in the pressure inside the liquid channel 12 due to absorptionof the oxygen within.

In the preceding explanation, a method in which the cover plate 13 waspierced with a syringe needle was employed as an example of a method forinjecting a sample into the sample introduction chamber 14 a. Forexample, a sample injection hole may be formed in the cover plate 13 inadvance, with the sample then injected through this hole. In this case,the sample injection hole may be covered with a protective tape and theinjection may be carried out by piercing the protective tape with thesyringe, or the protective tape may be peeled away and the injectioncarried out by inserting the syringe into the sample injection hole.

From the perspective of preventing contamination, etc., it is preferablethat the communicating holes provided in the various liquid chambers besealed prior to the use of the liquid channel devices 11A, 11B, and thenopened at the time of use. Thus, opening sections of the same design asthe opening sections S1˜14 may be provided to the liquid channel 12 infront of the communicating holes.

Further, in the above discussion, explanations were made of methods forcausing the liquid to flow by utilizing gravitational force in theliquid channel device 10A and employing centrifugal force in the liquidchannel device 10B, respectively. However, the present invention is notlimited thereto. For example, it is also acceptable to employ a methodfor causing movement and flow of the liquid by, for example,pressurizing a portion of the liquid channel 12, expanding the airinside the liquid channel 12 by heating part of the liquid channel 12,or reducing the pressure inside the liquid channel 12 by introducing anoxygen absorbing agent (readily oxidizable iron powder, etc.) to aportion of the liquid channel 12 and absorbing the oxygen inside theliquid channel 12. Further, it is also acceptable to pressurize, heat orreduce the pressure of the metering chamber 14 rather than a portion ofthe liquid channel 12, or, depending on the circumstances, topressurize, heat or reduce the pressure of both the metering chamber 14and the liquid channel 12.

The sample and reagent that flow through the liquid channel devices 10A,10B are not particularly restricted. Samples and reagents that areconventionally employed in the medical and environmental fields as wellas others, may be suitably combined in use. For example, such biologicalderivatives as blood (whole blood), plasma, serum, buffy coat, urine,stercus, saliva, sputum or the like, as well as viruses, or bacterial,mold, yeast, or plant cells, may be cited.

It is also acceptable to employ DNA or RNA isolated from these products.Alternatively, it is also acceptable to employ as a sample the productsobtained by performing any kind of pre-treatment or dilution on thepreceding. In the case where analyzing for the presence of an antigen inthe sample, it is preferable to use a reagent which includes an antibodyto the antigen.

As a detecting and analyzing section for the measured liquid formulatedby the liquid channel devices 10A, 10B, a conventionally knownphotochemical means, electrical means or the like may be suitablyemployed.

Fourth Embodiment

FIG. 14 is a planar perspective view schematically showing the liquidchannel device according to a fourth embodiment. FIG. 15 is a planarperspective view showing an expanded view of part of the liquid channeldevice in FIG. 14. FIG. 16 is a cross-sectional view along the line I-I′in FIG. 15.

In this liquid channel device 110, a groove-like liquid channel 112,through which a liquid being at least one of either a sample and areagent flows, and a plurality (9 in this embodiment) of liquid chambers(114 a˜114 i) for holding the liquid at the ends of or along the liquidchannel 112, are formed to at least one side of a flat square base plate111, and a cover plate 113 is laminated to the channel formation surface112 a of base plate 111 on which the liquid channel 112 is formed. Whenthe upper end of the liquid channel device 110 is positioned in theupward direction and the lower end of the liquid channel device 110 ispositioned in the downward direction as shown in FIG. 14, then thesample flows under the force of gravity from the upstream end to thedownstream end of the liquid channel 112 in the direction indicated byarrow F. A variety of treatments and mixing with reagents may be carriedout to the sample along the way, to formulate the measured liquid thatis supplied for various detection and analyses.

In other words, a sample introduction chamber 114 a, in which theintroduced sample is held, is provided at the upstream end of the liquidchannel 112, and a filtering chamber 114 b, which houses a filter notshown in the figures and carries out filtering of sample which hasflowed from the sample introduction chamber 114 a, is provideddownstream from the sample introduction chamber 114 a.

A metering chamber 114 c for quantification of a fixed amount offiltered sample is provided downstream from the filtering chamber 114 b.An overflow section including an overflow path 112 d and a wastesolution chamber 114 d provided downstream from the overflow path 112 d,is provided to the metering chamber 114 c in this embodiment. Samplewhich exceeds a fixed quantity at the metering chamber 114 c, overflows,flowing through the overflow path 112 d and into the waste solutionchamber 114 d. As a result, a fixed quantity of sample can be quantifiedat the metering chamber 114 c.

A first mixing chamber 114 f is provided downstream from the meteringchamber 114 c. The first mixing chamber 114 f is for mixing the samplequantified at the metering chamber 114 c and a liquid first reagent, aspecific quantity of which has been sealed into the first reagentchamber 114 e in advance. A second mixing chamber 114 h is provideddownstream from the mixing chamber 114 f. The second mixing chamber 114h is for mixing the intermediate solution formulated at first mixingchamber 114 f and a liquid second reagent, a specific quantity of whichhas been sealed into the second reagent chamber 114 g in advance.

A measuring chamber 114 i is provided downstream from the second mixingchamber 114 h (at the downstream end of the liquid channel 112). Themeasured liquid formulated at the second mixing chamber 114 h is held inthe measuring chamber 114 i, and detection and analyses of the variouscomponents is carried out by an analyzing and detecting section notshown in the figures.

Note that opening/closing communicating holes, not shown in the figures,which communicate with the outside environment, are provided as neededto each liquid chamber.

As shown in FIG. 16, the base plate 111 of the liquid channel device 110includes three layers, namely, an outer layer 111 a, an middle layer 111b laminated to the inside of the outer layer 111 a, and an inner layer111 c laminated to the inside of the middle layer 111 b.

The top part (cover plate 113 side) of the liquid chamber (FIG. 3 showsonly the sample introduction chamber 114 a and the filtering chamber 114b) and the liquid channel 112 are formed to the inner layer 111 c. Thebottom part of the liquid chamber (the section on the floor side of theliquid chamber, excluding the aforementioned top part) is formed to themiddle layer 111 b. In the middle layer 111 b, the surface on the innerlayer 111 c side forms the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112. Theouter layer 111 a is disposed to the outermost side of the base plate111, and the surface of the outer layer 111 a that is on the middlelayer 111 b side forms the floor of the liquid chamber.

This liquid channel device 110 is provided with opening sections S11˜S17for opening a portion of the liquid channel 112 from the closed mode,and a closing section T11 for closing a portion of the liquid channel112 from the open mode.

In this embodiment, one opening section S11˜S17 is disposed to each ofthe various liquid channels 112 between, respectively, the sampleintroduction chamber 114 a and the filtering chamber 114 b; thefiltering chamber 114 b and the metering chamber 114 c; the meteringchamber 114 c and the first mixing chamber 114 f; then first mixingchamber 114 f and the second mixing chamber 114 h; the first reagentchamber 114 e and the first mixing chamber 114 f; the second reagentchamber 114 g and the second mixing chamber 114 h; and the second mixingchamber 114 h and the measuring chamber 114 i.

The closing section T11 is provided farther downstream than the openingsection S12 on the liquid channel 112 that is between the filteringchamber 114 b and the metering chamber 114 c.

As exemplified by S11 and S12 in FIG. 16, the opening sections S11˜S17are formed by a resin stopper 115 which is designed to stop the flow ofliquid when disposed inside the liquid channel 112 so as to cover aportion of the liquid channel 112, thereby closing this portion of theliquid channel 112. This stopper 115 is made of a plastically deformableresin. The stopper 115 undergoes plastic deformation by externalpressing on the cover plate 113 in the area where the stopper 115 isdisposed, opening the liquid channel 112 from the closed mode.

Specifically, as shown by the opening section S11 exemplified in FIGS.17A and 17B, when a load is applied by pressing in the direction ofarrow A from the outside of the cover plate 113 on the stopper 115 whichforms the opening section S11, the cover plate 113 bends as shown inFIG. 17A, and the stopper 115 which contacts with the cover plate 113 ispressed down and undergoes plastic deformation to become flat. When theload is subsequently removed, then, as shown in FIG. 17B, the coverplate 113 is restored to its original state due to its restorativeforce. However, the stopper 115 does not undergo restoration but remainsin the flat deformed state. As a result, the space between the stopper115 and the cover plate 113 is again separates, enabling the liquid toflow through.

In the thus-designed opening sections S11˜S17, when a load is applied byapplying pressure to the stopper 115 from the outside of the cover plate113, the space between the stopper 115 and the cover plate 113, whichhad been very closely adhered, separates due to the pressing to removethe load. As a result, the liquid channel 112 in this area opens fromthe closed state.

As shown in FIG. 18, the closing section T11 of the liquid channeldevice 110 is provided with a sealing material supply chamber 116 whichis formed to the base plate 111 and branches from the liquid channel112, and a paste-like sealing material 117 which fills this sealingmaterial supply chamber 116.

As shown by the cross-sectional view in FIG. 19A and the planar view inFIG. 19B, by applying external pressing on the cover plate 113 in thearea corresponding to the sealing material supply chamber 116, thissealing material 117 passes through a supply channel 118 which isconnected to the sealing material supply chamber 116 and the liquidchannel 112, and is extruded out into the liquid channel 112, therebyclosing this section from the open mode.

Specifically, when a load is applied by pressing from the outside on thecover plate 113 in the area corresponding to the sealing material supplychamber 116 as shown by arrow B, the cover plate 13 bends. As a result,as shown by arrow C, the sealing material 117 which fills the sealingmaterial supply chamber 116 is extruded out into the liquid channel 112via the supply channel 118. As a result, the liquid channel 112 isclosed by the extruded sealing material 117, so that the liquid cannotflow through this section.

Note that in the case of a liquid channel device that can close from theopen mode, the sealing material supply chamber 116 and the liquidchannel 112 communicate via the supply channel 118. In this case aswell, it is acceptable to have the sealing material supply chamber 116and the liquid channel 112 directly communicate without forming thesupply channel 118.

As a specific example of a method for formulating the measured liquidusing this type of liquid channel device 110, an arrangement is providedin which the liquid channel device 110 is positioned so that the sampleintroduction chamber 114 a side is directed upward and the measuringchamber 114 i side is directed downward, so as to facilitate the flow ofliquid from upstream to downstream under the force of gravity.

Next, the sample is sampled with a syringe, and the cover plate 113 inthe area corresponding to the sample introduction chamber 114 is piercedwith the needle of the syringe and the sample is injected into thesample introduction chamber 114 a. Thereafter, the opening section S11provided in between the sample introduction chamber 114 a and thefiltering chamber 114 b, i.e., the liquid channel 112 in the area wherethe stopper 115 undergoes plastic deformation due to external pressingon the outside of the cover plate 113, opens, and the sample isintroduced under the force of gravity into the filtering chamber 114 b.

In this case, the pressing operation may be carried out manually by theoperator pressing with his finger. Alternatively, a specific site may bepressed by employing a pressing device in which the pressing positionhas been programmed in advance as XY coordinates.

Once the filtering has been completed at the filtering chamber 114 b,the stopper 115 of the opening sections S12 which is provided in betweenthe filtering chamber 114 b and the metering chamber 114 c undergoesplastic deformation in the same manner. The liquid channel 112 in thisarea opens, and the sample is introduced into the metering chamber 114 cunder the force of gravity.

In the metering chamber 114 c, once it is confirmed that the introducedliquid has begun to overflow, the closing section T11 which is providedin between the filtering chamber 114 b and the metering chamber 114 c isoperated, and the liquid channel 112 in this area is closed.Specifically, the cover plate 113 in the area corresponding to thesealing material supply chamber 116 is pressed as shown by arrow B toapply a load. The sealing material 117 which fills the sealing materialsupply chamber 116 is extruded out into the liquid channel 112, and theliquid channel 112 in this area is closed.

In this way, the liquid from upstream is prevented from flowing into themetering chamber 114 c, and the opening section S13 which is provideddownstream from the metering chamber 114 c is operated so that thesample quantified at the metering chamber 114 c is introduced into thefirst mixing chamber 114 f.

The thus-quantified sample is introduced into the first mixing chamber114 f. The opening section S14 which is in between the first reagentchamber 114 e and the first mixing chamber 114 f is subjected to plasticdeformation in the same manner as the stopper, to introduce the firstreagent into the first mixing chamber 114 f. The sample is then mixedwith the first reagent in the first mixing chamber 114 f, to formulatean intermediate solution.

The opening section S15 which is in between the first mixing chamber 114f and the second mixing chamber 114 h is subjected to plasticdeformation in the same manner as the stopper, to introduce theintermediate solution produced at first mixing chamber 114 f into thesecond mixing chamber 114 h. The opening section S16 which is in betweenthe second reagent chamber 114 g and the second mixing chamber 114 h issubjected to plastic deformation in the same manner as the stopper, tointroduce the second reagent into the second mixing chamber 114 h. Theintermediate solution and the second reagent are mixed in the secondmixing chamber 114 h, to formulate the measured liquid.

The opening section S17 which is in between the second mixing chamber114 h and the measuring chamber 114 i is subjected to plasticdeformation in the same manner as the stopper, to introduce the measuredliquid formulated in the second mixing chamber 114 h into the measuringchamber 114 i.

Once the measured liquid is introduced into the measuring chamber 114 i,each liquid channel device 110 is supplied to a detecting and analyzingsection, and detection and measurement of the target components iscarried out.

It is acceptable to control the flow of liquid, so that it flows moreeasily or the accuracy of the flow volume is improved for example,during the process for formulating the measured liquid in this way, bysuitably opening and closing as needed the communicating holes, notshown in the figures, which are provided to the various chambers.

This type of liquid channel device 110 has opening sections S11˜S17 foropening the liquid channel 112 from the closed mode, and a closingsection T11 for closing the liquid channel 112 from the open mode. As aresult, it is possible to control the flow of the liquid in the liquidchannel 112. As a result, highly accurate detection and analysis can becarried out in a short period of time.

For example, in this embodiment, the closing section T11 is providedupstream and the opening section S13 is provided downstream from themetering chamber 114 c. For this reason, the sample can be quickly andaccurately quantified at the metering chamber 114 c, and introduced intothe first mixing chamber 114 f. If, hypothetically, the opening sectionS13 is not provided downstream from the metering chamber 114 c here,then the liquid channel 112 in this section is continuously in the openstate. As a result, the sample continuously flows out from the meteringchamber 114 c even during quantification, so that so that a constantamount of sample cannot be retained. Thus, quantification itself becomesimpossible. When the closing section T11 is not provided upstream fromthe metering chamber 114 c, then it is necessary to introduce thequantified sample into the first mixing chamber 114 f by operating theopening section S13 in between the metering chamber 114 c and the firstmixing chamber 114 f after the entire amount of sample which has passedthrough the filtering chamber 114 b has completely finished flowing intothe metering chamber 114 c. In this case, when the sample is a liquidhaving viscosity, such as blood, then time is required for the entiresample which has passed through the filter to completely enter themetering chamber 114 c. Thus, it becomes difficult to carry outquantification within a short period to time. By providing the closingsection T11 to the upstream side of the metering chamber 114 c as inthis embodiment, then, even if the entire sample which has passedthrough the filtering chamber 114 b is not completely finished flowinginto the metering chamber 114 c, it is possible to operate the closingsection T11 once the sample begins to overflow at metering chamber 114c, so that further introduction of the sample into the metering chamber114 c can be prevented. Thus, an accurate quantification can be carriedout in a short period of time.

Further, in this embodiment, the opening section S15 is provided inbetween the first mixing chamber 114 f and the second mixing chamber 114h, and an opening section S17 is provided in between the second mixingchamber 114 h and the measuring chamber 114 i. For this reason, thedesired mixing and reactions can be sufficiently carried out in thefirst mixing chamber 114 f and the second mixing chamber 114 h, afterwhich the opening sections S15, S17 are opened, allowing theintermediate solution and the measured liquid to be introduced into thesecond mixing chamber 114 h and the measuring chamber 114 i. Thus, it ispossible to prevent a deterioration in the accuracy of detection andanalysis that is caused when the mixing or reaction is insufficient.

In this embodiment, the opening sections S14, S16 are provided inbetween the first reagent chamber 114 e and the first mixing chamber 114f, and the second reagent chamber 114 g and the second mixing chamber114 h. For this reason, these opening sections can be opened at thedesired time, enabling the first reagent and the second reagent, whichwere sealed in advance in the first reagent chamber 114 e and the secondreagent chamber 114 g, to be introduced into the first mixing chamber114 f and the second mixing chamber 114 h. If, hypothetically, theopening sections S14, S16 were not provided, then there is a concernthat the first regent and the second reagent would begin to flowdownstream during maintenance, etc. of the liquid channel device 110.

Moreover, the opening sections S11˜S17 and the closing section T11 ofthe liquid channel device 110 of this embodiment have a simpleconstruction and can be formed at low cost. Thus, liquid channel device110 can be made to be a disposable type. Further, the opening andclosing operation is accomplished by means of simple pressing. Thus,operability is superior.

This type of liquid channel device 110 can be produced by a methodprovided with a first step of forming the liquid channel 112, the liquidchamber, the sealing material supply chamber 116, and the supply channel118 to the base plate 111; a second step of forming the stopper 115 at aspecific position on the formed liquid channel 112; and a third step oflaminating the cover plate 113 to the channel formation surface 112 awhich is on the side of base plate 111 where the liquid channel 112,etc. is formed.

Note that in the case where the liquid channel device is able to closefrom the open mode, then the second step differs from that above and isfor filling the formed sealing material supply chamber 116 with asealing material.

The steps for producing the liquid channel device 110 will be explainedby further referencing FIG. 20, which schematically shows the steps forproducing the liquid channel device 110.

In the first step, a roll 120 of sheet 111 c′ which forms the innerlayer 111 c of the base plate 111, a roll 121 of sheet 111 b′ whichforms the middle layer 111 b of the base plate 111, and a roll 122 ofsheet 111 a′ which forms the outer layer 111 a of the base plate 111,are prepared.

Next, sheet 111 c′ is continuously supplied from roll 120 of sheet 111c′ forming the inner layer 111 c, and a die-cutter 123 a is used topunch out a linear form at the site corresponding to the liquid channel112, and punch out a hole at the area corresponding to the top part ofmetering chamber 114 c and the other various liquid chambers. Forms arepunched out in the sheet 111 c′ at the sites corresponding to the supplychannel 118 and the sealing material supply chamber 116 in order toprovide this liquid channel device 110 with a sealing material supplychamber 116 and a supply channel 118 formed branching off from part ofthe liquid channel 112.

Next, sheet 111 b′ is continuously supplied from roll the 121 of thesheet 111 b′ forming the middle layer 111 b, and a die-cutter 123 b isemployed to punch out holes at the sites corresponding to the bottompart of the metering chamber 114 c and the other various liquidchambers.

Next, sheet 111 a′ is continuously supplied from roll 122 of sheet 111a′ forming the outer layer 111 a. Next, the various sheets 111 a′, 111b′ and 111 c′ are sequentially laminated to form the base plate 111.

Here, it is preferable that the various sheets 111 a′, 111 b′, and 111c′ be adhered together by means of an adhesive supplied from an adhesivesupplying device not shown in the figures. However, depending on thematerial of the various sheets 111 a′, 111 b′ and 111 c′, it is alsoacceptable to stick the sheets together using heat fusion or the like.In addition, it is also acceptable to employ a sheet coated with anadhesive or the like.

A process is employed for the first step in this way in which thevarious sheets 111 a′, 111 b′, and 111 c′ from respective rolls 120,121, and 122 are supplied, punch-outs in respective specific shapes areformed in sheets 111 b′ and 111 c′, and these sheets 111 a′, 111 b′ and111 c′ are sequentially laminated and adhered. As a result, it ispossible to continuously produce multiple base plates 111 in which aliquid channel 112 and liquid chambers are formed. This type of methodhas reduced production costs and enables large scale production easilyas compared to a method in which, for example, lithography or machining,is used to form the liquid chambers and liquid channel in respectivebase plates comprising a single flat base plate, or a method in whichinjection molding or the like is used to form a base plate in whichliquid chambers and a liquid channel are formed. Accordingly, thismethod is ideal from an industrial perspective.

Note that a method in which specific shapes are punched out in sheets111 b′ and 111 c′ to form the liquid channel 112 and the liquidchambers, etc., is low cost and superior in productivity. However, it isalso acceptable to use other methods (lasering, drilling using a knife,etc., heating) to form the liquid channel 112 and liquid chambers byopening specific shapes in the sheets 111 b′ and 111 c′.

Further, this embodiment shows a three-layer design for the base layer111 of the liquid channel device 110 comprising the outer layer 111 a,the middle layer 111 b, and the inner layer 111 c. However, it is alsoacceptable to employ a two layer design comprising the outer layer 111 aand the inner layer 111 c. In this case, the liquid channel 112, liquidchambers, supply channel 118, and sealing material supply chamber 116are formed to the sheet 111 c′ forming the inner layer 111 c. In thiscase, the depth of the liquid chambers and the liquid channel 112 formedare the same.

The sealing material supply chamber 116 is formed to the sheet 111 c′which forms the inner layer 111 c. However, particularly in the case ofa liquid channel device which can close from the open mode, the top partof the sealing material supply chamber may be formed to the sheet 111 c′which forms the inner layer 111 c, the bottom part of the sealingmaterial supply chamber may be formed to the sheet 111 b′ which formsthe middle layer 111 b, and the sealing material supply chamber may beformed to have the same depth as the liquid chambers.

Examples of materials for the various sheets 111 a′, 111 b′, and 111 c′forming the outer layer 111 a, the middle layer 111 b, and the innerlayer 111 c of the base plate 111 include such resins as styrene resin,acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, vinyl chloride resin, PEN resin,polyester resin, epoxy resin, phenol resin, ABS resin, polypropyleneresin, fiber-reinforced plastic or the like. Among these, styrene resin,acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, vinyl chloride resin, PEN resin, andpolyester resin are preferred because they are transparent and enablevisual inspection of the condition of the liquid flowing through theliquid channel 112.

Note that in this embodiment, examples of resins were disclosed for thesheet material in order to explain an optimal method for producing aliquid channel device 110 when employing a resin roll as the base plate111. However, the production method is not particularly restricted. Forexample, when it is necessary to stably support the liquid channeldevice, then a non-resin transparent material, such as a glass plate,may be employed for the base plate, and a method such as machining maybe applied to this material to form the liquid channel and the liquidchambers.

The thickness of the various sheets 111 a′, 111 b′, and 111 c′ can besuitably designed. However, in the case of the liquid channel device 110in the figures, the thickness of the sheet 111 c′ forming the innerlayer 111 c corresponds to the depth of the liquid channel 112 which isformed, and the sum of the thicknesses of the sheet 111 c′ forming theinner layer 111 c and the sheet 111 b′ forming the middle layer 111 bcorresponds to the total depth of the liquid chambers. Thus, thethicknesses of the sheet 111 b′ and sheet 111 c′ are determined aftertaking into consideration the depth required for the liquid chambers andthe liquid channel 112.

Specifically, the thickness of the sheet 111 b′ is preferably in therange of 25˜500 μm, and the thickness of the sheet 111 c′ is preferablyin the range of 10˜300 μm.

Further, in this embodiment (i.e., the case where the cover plate 113 ispressed), when the thickness of the sheet 111 a′ is preferably 50 μm orgreater, or more preferably in the range of 10˜1000 μm, then sheet 111a′ sufficiently functions as a support layer for the liquid channeldevice 110.

The width of the liquid channel 112, and the capacity and shape of thevarious chambers and the sealing material supply chamber 116 are notparticularly restricted and may be optimally designed. For example, thewidth of the liquid channel 112 is preferably in the range of 25˜2,000μm and more preferably in the range of 500˜2,000 μm, and the capacity ofthe liquid chamber is preferably in the range of 50˜50,000 μl and morepreferably in the range of 100˜1,000 μl.

However, with regard to the waste solution chamber 114 d and the like,there is not a particularly optimal capacity; rather these may be freelydesigned according to the function of the various chambers.

Note that in the case of a liquid channel device which can close to theopen mode, the thickness of the 111 c forming the inner layer 111 ccorresponds to the depth of the sealing material supply chamber 116 andthe supply channel 118 which are formed.

Next, in the case of a liquid channel device which can open from theclosed mode, the second step of forming a stopper 115 to a part of theliquid channel 112 which was formed to the base plate 111 in the firststep above, i.e., to the various positions at which the opening sectionsS11˜S17 are provided, is carried out.

In this second step, the stopper 115 is formed using a method in which astopper forming material for forming the stopper 115 is coated tospecific positions on the liquid channel 112 of a continuously suppliedbase plate 111 using a coating device 124 a such as a printer (a screenprinter, for example), dispenser, coater (roll coater, knife coater) orthe like.

Next, in the second step in the case of a liquid channel device capableof closing from the open mode, a stopper 115 is formed to the part ofthe liquid channel 112 which was formed to the base plate 111 in thefirst step above, i.e., to the various positions at which the openingsections S11˜S17 are provided, and the sealing material supply chamber116 which was formed to the base plate 111 in the first step is filledwith the sealing material 117.

The formation of the stopper 115 is carried out using a method whichemploys a coating device 124 a such as a printer (screen printing, forexample), dispenser, coater (roll coater, knife coater) or the like, tocoat a stopper forming material for forming stopper 115 to specificpositions on the liquid channel 112 of a continuously supplied baseplate 111.

The stopper forming material is not particularly restricted as long asit is a material which is not mutually reactive with the liquid flowingthrough the liquid channel 112, which can stop the liquid with assurancewhen in the closed state and which will undergo plastic deformation whensubjected to pressing. For example, a resin composition including aresin component, a plastic component, a filler and a solvent, may beused. Further, when employing a dispenser as the coating device 124 a,the viscosity of the resin composition is preferably in the range of30˜500 dPa·s. When employing a screen printer or the like, the viscosityof the resin composition is preferably in the range of 50˜500 dPa·s.

From the perspective of sealing strength, stability, solubility, coatingproperties (printability, dispensability, etc.) and the like, it isoptimal to employ as the resin component, a resin for which, preferably,the glass transition temperature is −10° C. or less and weight averagemolecular weight is 300,000 or less. Types of resins which may be citedinclude ester resins, such as epoxy resin, polyester resin, chlorideresins, acrylic resins, and phthalates. One or more of these resins maybe used.

A plasticizer for which the glass transition temperature is 30° C. orless is optimally employed as the plastic component. Types ofplasticizers which may be cited include thermoplastic resins which a lowmelting point such as hard resin type resins, epoxy resins, polyesterresins and the like. One or more of these plasticizers may be employed.

The filler is added to adjust the viscosity and formability of thestopper forming material. Suitable examples that may be cited includebarium sulfate sediment, talc, needle silicon oxide, hollow beads, etc.One or more of the aforementioned may be employed.

A stopper formed from a resin composition which incorporates hollowbeads (made of glass, resin, etc.) not only undergoes plasticdeformation but also may experience breaking and destruction of thehollow beads. As a result, the volume of the stopper will decrease bythe proportion of broken hollow beads. For this reason, a stopper whichuses hollow beads undergoes a flatter plastic deformation when subjectedto pressing and crushing, so that the liquid can flow more readily whenin the open state.

A solvent is incorporated in order to adjust the viscosity of thestopper forming material, and any suitable organic solvent may beemployed therefor. Note that as long as printing or other such coatingis possible without including a solvent, then it is acceptable, and evendesirable, not to include a solvent in the stopper forming material.

By employing a method for coating the stopper formation material using aprinting, dispensing or coating method in this way, the stopper 115 canbe continuously formed to specific sites with good efficiency.

In the second step, the coating device 124 b was used to fill thesealing material supply chamber 116 forming the stopping part T11 with apaste-like sealing material 117. Provided that the method employed isone which coats the sealing material 117 using the aforementionedprinting method, dispenser method, or coating method, then it ispossible to continuously and efficiently fill a specific site with thesealing material 117.

Any material may be employed for the paste-like sealing material 117provided that it is one which does not have a reciprocal action with theliquid flowing through the liquid channel 112 and that it is a materialwhich, when pressed down, can seal the liquid channel 112. For example,a resin composition is optimally employed which includes a resincomponent, a plastic component, and a filler, and which has, forexample, a viscosity of 30500 dPa·s. In addition, the resin compositionis preferred that ultimately has a coefficient of extension which is500% or more.

From the perspective of coating properties (printability,dispensability, etc.), fluidity, sealing ability, stability and thelike, it is optimal to employ as the resin component, a resin whichpreferably has a glass transition temperature of −40° C. or less and aweight average molecular weight of 50,000 or less. Examples of types ofsuch resins include ester resins such as epoxy resins, polyester resins,chlorine containing resins, acrylic resins, phthalate and the like. Oneor more of these may be used.

A plasticizer having a glass transition temperature of 30° C. or less isoptimally employed for the plastic component. Examples of types ofplasticizer include thermoplastic resins having a low melting point suchas hard resin-type resins, epoxy resins, and polyester resins. One ormore plasticizers may be used.

The filler is added to adjust the viscosity of the sealing material 117and to render the sealing material 117 into a form which readily sealsthe liquid channel 112 when the sealing material 117 is pressed into theliquid channel 112. Fiber pieces, body pigments, and thixotropy addingagents may be used. Specifically, fumed silica such as AEROSIL (productname, Nippon Aerosil), barium sulfate sediment, or talc can bepreferably used.

After coating the stopper forming material and the sealing material 117to the respective specific sites in this way, various steps not shown inthe figures, such as a heat drying step, curing step, etc. are carriedout as needed based on the stopper forming material and sealing material117 compositions.

Next, in the third step, the sheet 113′ which forms the cover plate 113is laminated and adhered to the channel formation surface 112 a of thebase plate 111. It is desirable in this case to continuously supply thesheet 113′ forming the cover plate 113 from the roll 125. Further, whileit is desirable to adhere the base plate 111 and the sheet 113′ using anadhesive agent supplied from an adhesive agent supplying device, notshown in the figures, it is also acceptable, depending on the materials,to paste together the base plate 111 and the sheet 113′ using heatfusion, etc. As a result, it is possible for a plurality of liquidchannel devices 110 to produce a continuously linked body.

The thus-produced continuous body from the liquid channel device 110 maybe wound as shown in FIG. 20 to form a roll 126, or may be folded over.Further, it is also acceptable to render the continuous body intoseparate sheet-type forms by cutting each. In the case of the roll 126or the folded forms, it is acceptable to carry out a step in which aperforation or concave-type line is formed in between the various liquidchannel devices 110. As a result, folding over the continuous bodybetween the various liquid channel devices 110, or bending thecontinuous bodies from the liquid channel device 110 becomes easy. Inaddition, it also becomes easy to cut out separate sheet type forms.

Note that cover plate 113 bends when a pressing load is applied as shownby the arrow A in FIG. 17A, and returns to its original state due to itsrestorative force when that load is subsequently removed. Provided thatcover plate 113 is as described, then the material and thickness thereofare not particularly restricted. Examples of materials which may becited include resins such as styrene resin, acrylic resin, polycarbonateresin, vinyl chloride resin, PEN resin, polyester resin, epoxy resin,phenol resin, ABS resin, polypropylene resin, fiber-reinforcedplastic-type resins or the like. Among these, styrene resin, acrylicresin, polycarbonate resin, vinyl chloride resin, PEN resin, andpolyester resin are preferred because they are transparent and enablevisual inspection of the condition of the liquid flowing through theliquid channel 112. In the case of a liquid channel device which opensfrom the closed mode, a thickness in the range of 15˜300 μm is preferredas this provides flexibility and restorative force to the cover plate113.

In the case of a liquid channel device which closes from the open mode,a thickness in the range of 30˜500 μm is preferred for the cover plate113.

In the third step, prior to laminating and adhering the cover plate 113to the channel formation surface 112 a of the base plate 111, it ispreferable to first carry out a releasing treatment by coating areleasing agent containing a silicon component or the like to the part113 a of the cover plate 113 that contacts the stopper 115. By applyinga releasing agent in this way, it is possible to quickly separate thecover plate 113 and the stopper 115 when removing the load shown byarrow A (FIG. 17B), and easily transition to the open state. It ispreferable to carry out an adhesive treatment by coating an adhesiveagent to the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112 in the area that isin contact with the stopper 115. By doing so, the stopper 115 adhereswith certainty to this area, making it possible to more smoothlyseparate the stopper 115 from the cover plate 113 side accompanying theabove-described releasing treatment.

Note that the above explanation exemplified a design for the stopper 115forming the opening parts S11˜S17 in which the stopper 115 undergoeselastic deformation due to external pressing on the cover plate 113,thereby opening the liquid channel 112 from the closed mode. However, itis also acceptable to provide a design in which the stopper 115undergoes plastic deformation due to an external pressing on the floor112 b of the liquid channel 112 at the area where the stopper 115 isdisposed. In this case, it is necessary to design the middle layer 111 band the outer layer 111 a forming the base plate 111 to bend when apressing load is applied, and to return to their original forms undertheir restorative force when the load is subsequently removed. In thiscase (i.e., the case where pressing is applied to the bottom part 112b), it is ideal when the thickness of the sheet 111 a′ is preferably inthe range of 10˜300 μm, and more preferably in the range of 15˜200 μm.

In addition, in this case, it is preferable to carry out an adhesivetreatment to the part 113 a of the cover plate 113 that is in contactwith the stopper 115, and to carry out a releasing treatment to the partof the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112 that is in contact with thestopper 115.

Similarly, the above explanation exemplified an arrangement in which theliquid channel 112 is sealed by causing a sealing material 117 toextrude out due to external pressing on the cover plate 113 in the areacorresponding to the sealing material supply chamber 116, as shown inFIG. 19A and FIG. 19B. However, it is also acceptable to provide anarrangement in which the sealing material 117 is extruded out throughexternal pressing on the floor 116 a of the sealing material supplychamber 116. In this case, it is necessary to design the middle layer111 b and the outer layer 111 a forming the base plate 111 to bend whena pressing load is applied.

Fifth Embodiment

FIG. 21 is a planar perspective drawing schematically showing a liquidchannel device 110A according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 22 is a planarperspective drawing in which a portion of the liquid channel device 110Ain FIG. 21 has been enlarged. FIG. 23 is a cross-sectional view alongthe line I-I′ in FIG. 22.

A square base plate 111A, formed of a flat plate, and a cover plate113A, formed to the channel formation surface 112 a on the side of thebase plate 111A where the liquid channel 112 is formed, are laminatedtogether in this liquid channel device 110A. The remainder of the designis equivalent to that of the fourth embodiment and will therefore beomitted from the discussion.

The base plate 111A of this liquid channel device 110A is made of aplurality of layers as shown in FIG. 23. Specifically, the base plate111A has a three-layer design comprising an outer layer 111 a, a middlelayer 111 b laminated to the inside of the outer layer 111 a, and ainner layer 111 c laminated to the inside of the middle layer 111 b.

The top part (the portion of the liquid chamber on the cover plate 113Aside) of the liquid chambers (only sample introduction chamber 114 a andfiltering chamber 114 b are shown in FIG. 23) and the liquid channel 112are formed to the inner layer 111 c.

The bottom part (the portion other than the aforementioned top part, theportion on the floor side of the liquid chambers) is formed to themiddle layer 111 b. The surface of the middle layer 111 b on its innerlayer 111 c side forms the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112.

The outer layer 111 a is disposed to the outermost side of the baseplate 111A, and its surface that is on the middle layer 111 b side formsthe floor of the liquid chambers.

The cover plate 113A is also made of plural layers. Specifically, thecover plate 113A has a two-layer design comprising the outer layer 113 aand the inner layer 113 b which is laminated to the inside of the outerlayer 113 a.

As in the case of the fourth embodiment, this liquid channel device 110Ais provided with opening sections S11˜S17 for opening a portion of theliquid channel 112 from the closed mode, and the closing part T11 forclosing a portion of the liquid channel 112 from the open mode. Thedesign of the opening parts S11˜S17 and the closing part T11 are thesame as that of the fourth embodiment, therefore an explanation thereofis omitted here.

In this embodiment, the opening sections S11˜S17 are equipped with aresin stopper 115 inside the liquid channel 112 which is disposed so asto seal a portion of the liquid channel 112 and stop the flow of liquid,thereby closing that portion of the liquid channel 112, as explained bythe example of S11 and S12 in FIG. 23. A concave section 151 capable ofhousing the stopper 115 is formed to a site opposite the stopper 115 onthe inner surface of the cover plate 113A. Specifically, in thisembodiment, the concave section 151 is formed by opening a punch-out orthe like in the inner surface 113 b of the cover plate 113A.

As shown by the expanded view in FIG. 24A, when in the closed state, theportion (bottom) of the stopper 115 of this embodiment which is incontact with the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112 is fixed in placeto the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112 by means of a weaklyadhered layer 115 a. Further, the height of the stopper 115 is formed tobe slightly greater than the height of the liquid channel 112, with thetop part 115 b side being disposed inside the concave section 151 in amore or less watertight engagement.

A strongly adhered layer 116 a, which has a larger adhesive strengththan the weakly adhered layer 115 a, is formed to a position oppositethe top part 115 b of the stopper 115 in the concave section 151.

By applying an external pressing force to the floor 112 b of the liquidchannel 112 or the cover plate 113A in the area where the openingsections S11, S12 are provided (i.e., the area corresponding to thestopper 115 or the concave section 151), the stopper 115 moves from theliquid channel 112 into the concave section 151, thereby opening theliquid channel 112 from the closed mode.

Specifically, as shown by the example of opening section S11 in FIG. 25Aand FIG. 25B, the cover plate 113A bends as shown in FIG. 25A when anexternal pressing load as shown by arrow A is applied to the cover plate113A. As a result, the strongly adhered layer 116 a of the concavesection 151 and the top part 115 b of the stopper 115 come into contactand become adhered. When the load is subsequently removed, the coverplate 113A returns to its original state due to its restorative force,as shown by FIG. 25B. Accompanying this, the stopper 115 which isadhered in the concave section 151 by the action of the strongly adheredlayer 116 a separates from the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112,and is thereby housed inside the concave section 151. As a result, thestopper 115 separates from the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112,allowing the liquid to flow.

After a load has been applied by external pressing on the cover plate113A in the area of provision of the opening sections S11˜S17, apressing operation is employed to the remove the load from these openingsections S11˜S17. As a result, the stopper 115 moves from the liquidchannel 112 into the concave section 151. As a result, the liquidchannel 112 in that area opens from the closed mode.

Note that in FIGS. 25A and 25B, a load is applied to the cover plate113A by external pressing. However, it is also acceptable to move thestopper 115 from the liquid channel 112 into the concave section 151 bypressing on the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112 in the area ofprovision of the opening section S11, i.e., by applying an externalpressing to the base plate 111A.

In addition, in FIGS. 25A and 25B, the weakly adhered layer 115 aremains on the floor 112 b side of the liquid channel 112 after theliquid channel 112 has been opened. However, it is also acceptable forthe weakly adhered layer 115 a to remain in the adhered state on thestopper 115 side.

The closing section T11 of the liquid channel device 110A is providedwith a resin stopper 150 as shown in FIG. 24B. This stopper 150 ishoused inside the concave section 152 which is formed on the innersurface of the cover plate 113A. Specifically, in this embodiment, theconcave section 152 is formed by punching out the inner layer 113 b ofthe cover plate 113A to form a hole. The stopper 150 is housed insidethe concave section 152.

In the stopper 150 of this embodiment, when in the open state, the toppart 117 b adheres in the concave section 152 due to the weakly adheredlayer 117 a, and is housed therein. The height of the stopper 150 isformed to be slightly greater than the height of the liquid channel 112.When the liquid channel 112 is in the closed state as described below,then the top part 117 b side is designed to be engaged in a more or lesswatertight manner within the concave section 152.

The strongly adhered layer 118 a is formed to a position opposite thebottom part of the stopper 150 in the floor 112 b of the liquid channel112.

Further, the stopper 150 moves from within the concave section 152 intothe liquid channel 112 by means of external pressing to the cover plate113A or the floor 112 b of liquid channel 112 at the area of provisionof the closing section T11 (at the area corresponding to the stopper 150and the concave section 152), thereby closing the liquid channel 112from the open mode.

Specifically, as shown in FIGS. 26A and 26B, when a load is applied asshown in the direction of arrow B from the outside onto cover plate113A, then the cover plate 113A bends as shown in FIG. 26A. As a result,the strongly adhered layer 118 a on the floor 112 b of the liquidchannel 112 and the bottom part of the stopper 150 come into contact andadhere. When the load is subsequently removed, then the cover plate 113Areturns to its original state due to its restorative force. In thiscase, the stopper 150 does not accompany the cover plate 113A, butremains adhered to the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112 due to theaction of the strongly adhered layer 118 a. Even if the cover plate 113Areturns to its original state, the stopper 150 does not accompany it,but rather remains adhered to the liquid channel 112. As a result, theliquid channel 112 is closed by the stopper 150, so that liquid cannotflow through that portion. In this case, as described above, the toppart 117 b of the stopper 150 enters a state of more or less watertightengagement within the concave section 152.

In a closing section T1 of this kind, once a load has been applied bymeans of a pressing force from the outside on the cover plate 113 at thearea of provision of the closing part T11, the stopper 150 moves fromwithin the concave section 152 to the liquid channel 112 as a result ofpressing to remove the load. As a result, the liquid channel 112 closesfrom the open mode.

Note that in FIGS. 26A and 26B, a load is applied by pressing the coverplate 113A from the outside. However, it is also acceptable to movestopper 150 into the liquid channel 112 in the same manner by externalpressing of the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112, i.e., from theoutside of the base plate 111A, in the area of provision of the stoppingsection T11.

Further, in FIGS. 26A and 26B, the weakly adhered layer 117 a remains onthe concave section 152 side once the liquid channel 112 is closed.However, it is also acceptable for the weakly adhered layer 117 a toremain adhered on the stopper 150 side.

In a specific method for formulating a measured liquid employing thistype of liquid channel device 110A, the liquid channel device 110A isplaced so that the sample introduction chamber 114 a is disposed in theupward direction and the measuring chamber 114 i is disposed in thedownward direction, with the liquid then flowing under gravity from theupstream to the downstream side.

Next, the sample is sampled using a syringe and the cover plate 113A inthe area corresponding to the sample introduction chamber 114 a ispieced with the syringe needle, to inject the sample into the sampleintroduction chamber 114 a. Next, a pressing operation as describedabove is applied to the opening section S11 which is provided in betweenthe sample introduction chamber 114 a and the filtering chamber 114 b,i.e., a load is applied by pressing on the cover plate 113A or on thebottom portion of the liquid channel 112. An operation to remove theload is subsequently carried out, causing the stopper 15 to move withinthe concave section 151. The liquid channel 112 in this area opens fromthe closed mode, and the sample is introduced as far as the filter tank114 b under the force of gravity.

In this case, pressing may be performed with the operator's finger, or apre-programmed pressing device in which the pressing site is defined byX,Y coordinates may be employed to press a specific position.

Next, once filtering is carried out at filtering chamber 114 b, then theliquid channel 112 in the area of opening section S12 provided inbetween the filtering chamber 114 b and the metering chamber 114 c isopened by similarly moving the stopper 115 within the concave section151, thereby introducing the sample into the metering chamber 114 cunder the force of gravity.

Next, once the beginning of overflow of the introduced liquid isconfirmed at metering chamber 114 c, the stopper 150 is moved from theconcave section 152 into the liquid channel 112 at closing section T11which is provided in between the filtering chamber 114 b and themetering chamber 114 c, thereby closing the liquid channel 112 in thisarea.

In this way, the further introduction of liquid from upstream into themetering chamber 114 c is prevented, after which the opening section S13which is provided downstream from the metering chamber 114 c is operatedto introduce the sample quantified at metering chamber 114 c into thefirst mixing chamber 114 f.

The thus-quantified sample is introduced into the first mixing chamber114 f, and the opening section S14 which is in between the first reagentchamber 114 e and the first mixing chamber 114 f is opened in the samemanner. The first reagent is introduced into the first mixing chamber114 f, and the sample and the first reagent are mixed in the firstmixing chamber 114 f, to formulate an intermediate solution.

Next, the opening section S15 which is in between the first mixingchamber 114 f and the second mixing chamber 114 h is transitioned to theopen state in the same manner. The intermediate solution which wasformulated in the first mixing chamber 114 f is introduced into thesecond mixing chamber 114 h. The opening section S16 which is in betweenthe second reagent chamber 114 g and the second mixing chamber 114 h istransitioned to the open state in the same manner, and the secondreagent is introduced to the second mixing chamber 114 h. Theintermediate solution and the second reagent are mixed in the secondmixing chamber 114 h to formulate a measured liquid.

Next, the opening section S17 which is in between the second mixingchamber 114 h and the measuring chamber 114 i is transitioned to theopen state in the same manner. The measured liquid which was formulatedin the second mixing chamber 114 h is introduced into the measuringchamber 114 i

Next, after the measured liquid is introduced into the measuring chamber114 i, the liquid channel device 110A is supplied to the detector andanalyzer, and detection and measurement of the desired component isperformed.

Note that in the process for formulating the measured liquid in thisway, the continuous holes, not shown in the figures, which are providedto the various liquid chambers are suitably opened and closed asnecessary. As a result, the liquid flows easily, the accuracy of theliquid volume is improved and control of the flow of the liquid may becarried out.

As in the case of the previously described liquid channel device 110according to the fourth embodiment, this liquid channel device 110A isprovided with the opening sections S11˜S17, the closing section T11which transitions from the open to the closed state, and the openingsections S15, S14, and S16. As a result, this liquid channel device 110Aprovides the same effects as the liquid channel device 110.

The liquid channel device 110A of this embodiment, i.e., a liquidchannel device 110A in which the cover plate 113A is formed of twolayers, and the concave section 151,152 are formed to the cover plate113A, is formed by the flowing method.

In other words, the liquid channel device 110A can be produced by meansof a first step in which the liquid channel 112 and the liquid chamberare formed to the base plate 111A, and concavities 151,152 are formed tothe cover plate 113A; a second step in which a stopper 115 forming theopening sections S11˜S17 are formed to a portion of the liquid channel112, and a stopper 150 forming the closing sections T11 is formed insidethe concave section 152 of the cover plate 113A; and a third step inwhich the surface of the cover plate 113A on which the concavities151,152 are formed is laminated to the channel formation surface 112 aon the side of the base plate 111A on which the liquid channel 112 andthe like are formed.

The method for producing the liquid channel device 110A will now beexplained by referencing FIG. 27 that schematically shows the productionmethod for a liquid channel device 110A.

In the first step, a roll 120 of sheet 111 c′ which forms the innerlayer 111 c of the base plate 111A, a roll 121 of sheet 111 b′ whichforms the middle layer 111 b, and a roll 122 of sheet 111 a′ which formsthe outer layer 111 a of the base plate 111A, are prepared in advance.

Next, sheet 111 c′ is continuously supplied from the roll 120 of thesheet 111 c′ forming the inner layer 111 c and die-cutter 123 a is usedto punch out linear shapes at sites corresponding to the liquid channel112 and to punch out areas corresponding to the top part of the meteringchamber 114 c and other various liquid chambers in the shape of a hole.

Next, sheet 111 b′ is continuously supplied from the roll 121 of thesheet 111 c′ forming the middle layer 111 b and die-cutter 123 b is usedto punch out holes at sites corresponding to the bottom portion of themetering chamber 114 c and other various liquid chambers.

Next, sheet 111 a′ is continuously supplied from the roll 122 of thesheet 111 a′ forming the outer layer 111 a and the various sheets 111a′, 111 b′ and 111 c′ are sequentially laminated to form the base plate111A.

Here, it is preferable that the various sheets 111 a′, 111 b′ and 111 c′be adhered using an adhesive agent that is supplied from the adhesiveagent supplying device not shown in the figures. However, depending onthe material of each of the sheets 111 a′, 111 b′, 111 c′, it is alsoacceptable to attach the sheets together using heat fusion. It alsoacceptable to use a sheet coated with a binder or adhesive agent.

In the first step, a roll 125 of sheet 113 b′ which forms the innerlayer 113 b of the cover plate 113A, and a roll 126 of sheet 113 a′which forms the outer layer 113 a of the cover plate 113A are preparedin advance. Next, sheet 113 b′ is continuously supplied from the roll125 of the sheet 113 b′ forming the inner layer 113 b and die-cutter 123c is used to punch out sites corresponding to concavities 151,152.

Next, sheet 113 a′ is continuously supplied from the roll 126 of thesheet 113 a′ forming the outer layer 113 a of the cover plate 113A, andthe cover plate 113A is produced by laminating the various sheets 113a′,113 b′.

Here, it is preferable that the various sheets 113 a′, 113 b′ be adheredusing an adhesive agent that is supplied from the adhesive agentsupplying device not shown in the figures. However, depending on thematerial of each of the sheets 113 a′, 113 b′ it is also acceptable toattach the sheets together using heat fusion. It also acceptable to usea sheet coated with paste or adhesive agent.

As a first step in this way, the various sheets 111 a′, 111 b′, 111 c′,113 a′, 113 b′ are supplied from the various rolls 120, 121, 122, 125,126, specific forms are punched out from sheets 111 b′, 111 c′, 113 b′,and the various sheets 111 a′, 111 b′, and 111 c′ are subsequentlylaminated in sequence and adhered. In addition, when employing a processin which the sheets 113 a′ and 113 b′ are laminated and adhered, it ispossible to continuously produce a plurality of base plates 111A inwhich the liquid channel 112, liquid chambers and the like are formed,and a plurality of cover plates 113A in which concavities 151,152 areformed.

A method of this type offers low production costs and enables simple andlarge volume production, and is suitable for industrial applicability,as compared to a method in which photolithography, cutting or the likeis employed to form the liquid chambers, liquid channel or concavitiesto the base plate or the cover plate made of a single plate, or a methodin which injection molding or the like is used to form the base plate orthe cover plate in which the liquid chambers, liquid channel orconcavities are formed.

Note that a method in which the sheets 111 b′, 111 c′, 113 b′ arepunched out in a specific shape to form the liquid channel 112, liquidchambers and concavities 151, 152, etc., is excellent with respect toproductivity at low cost. However, it is also acceptable to employ othermethods (laser, drilling with a knife, heat working, etc.) to form theliquid channel 112, liquid chambers, concavities 151, 152 and the likeby opening specific shapes in the sheet 111 b′, 111 c′, 113 b′.

This embodiment showed a design in which the base plate 111A of theliquid channel device 110A is made of three layers including the outerlayer 111 a, middle layer 111 b, and inner layer 111 c. However, it isalso acceptable to make the base plate 111A of the liquid channel device110A of two layers including the outer layer 111 a and the inner layer111 c. In this case, the liquid channel 112 and the liquid chambers areformed on top of the sheet 111 c′ which forms the inner layer 111 c. Inthis case, the depth of the liquid channel 112 and the liquid chamberswhich are formed is the same.

Examples of resins which may be used for the material of the varioussheets 111 a′, 111 b′, 111 c′ forming the outer layer 111 a, middlelayer 111 b, inner layer 111 c of the base plate 111A, and the varioussheets 113 a′, 113 b′ forming the outer layer 113 a and inner layer 113b of the base plate 113A include styrene resin, acrylic resin,polycarbonate resin, vinyl chloride resin, PEN resin, polyester resin,epoxy resin, phenol resin, ABS resin, polypropylene resin,fiber-reinforced plastic or the like. Among these, styrene resin,acrylic resin, polycarbonate resin, vinyl chloride resin, PEN resin, andpolyester resin are preferred because they are transparent and enablevisual inspection of the condition of the liquid flowing through theliquid channel 112.

Note that in this embodiment, a resin roll was employed as the materialfor the base plate 111A and cover plate 113A, and various resins werecited as examples of the sheet material in order to explain the optimalmethod for producing the liquid channel device 110A in this case.However, the production method is not limited thereto. For example, inthe case where it is necessary to stably support the liquid channeldevice, it is also possible to use transparent materials such as glassother than resins, and to form the liquid channel, liquid chambers,concavities and the like by suitably employing machining or the likethereto.

The thickness of the various sheets 111 a′, 111 b′, 111 c′ may besuitably designed. In the case of the liquid channel device 110A shownin the figures, the thickness of the sheet 111 c′ forming the innerlayer 111 c corresponds to the depth of the liquid channel 112 which isformed. The sum of the thickness of the sheet 111 c′ forming the innerlayer 111 c and the thickness of the sheet 111 b′ forming the middlelayer 111 b corresponds to the total depth of the channels. Thus, thethickness of the sheet 111 b′ and the sheet 111 c′ is decided aftertaking into consideration the depth obtained from the liquid chambers,liquid channel 112, etc.

Specifically, the thickness of the sheet 111 b′ is preferably in therange of 25˜500 μm, and the thickness of the sheet 111 c′ is preferablyin the range of 10˜300 μm.

Further, when operating the opening sections S11˜S17 and closing sectionT11 by pressing on the cover plate 113A, the thickness of the sheet 111a′ is preferably 50 μm or more, and more preferably in the range of100˜1000 μm. When the thickness of the sheet 111 a′ is in this range,the sheet 111 a′ sufficiently functions as a support layer for theliquid channel device 110A. Conversely, in the case where a pressingforce is applied to the base plate 111A, it is required that the baseplate 111A bend when a load is applied via pressing and that it haverestorative force to return to its original state when the load issubsequently removed. In this case, a thickness in the range of 10˜300μm is preferred.

The width of the liquid channel 112, and the capacity and shape of thevarious chambers are not particularly restricted and may be suitablyset. For example, the width of the liquid channel 112 is preferably inthe range of 25˜2,000 μm, and more preferably in the range of 500˜2,000μm. The capacity of the liquid chamber is preferably in the range of50˜50,000 μl, and more preferably in the range of 100˜1,000 μl.

However, with regard to the waste solution chamber 114 d and the like,there is not a particularly optimal capacity; rather these may be freelyset according to the function of the various chambers.

The thickness of the various sheets 113 a′, 113 b′ may be suitablydesigned. In the case of the liquid channel device 110A shown in thefigures, the thickness of the sheet 113 b′ forming the inner layer 113 bcorresponds to the depth of the concavities 151,152 that are formed.Thus, the thickness of the sheet 113 b′ is decided after taking intoconsideration the depth obtained from the concavities 151,152. Further,as shown in FIGS. 25A, 25B and FIGS. 26A, 26B, when operating theopening sections S11˜S17 and closing section T11 by pressing on thecover plate 113A from the outside, it is required that the sheets 113a′, 113 b′ bend when a load is applied via pressing and that they haverestorative force to return to their original state when the load issubsequently removed. Accordingly, it is necessary to take this factinto consideration as well when determining the thickness of thesesheets.

In the case where the cover plate 113A is subjected to a pressing force,the thickness of the sheet 113 a′ is preferably in the range of 10˜300μm, and the thickness of the sheet 113 b′ is preferably in the range of25˜500 μm. Conversely, in the case where the cover plate 111A issubjected to a pressing force, the thickness of the sheet 113 a′ ispreferably 50 μm or more.

Next, prior to carrying out the second step, in the case of the liquidchannel device 110A of this embodiment, an adhesive layer formationstep, not shown in the figures, is carried out in which weakly adheredlayers 115 a, 117 a and strongly adhered layers 116 a, 118 a are formedat specific sites for holding the stopper 115, 150. A method in which asuitable adhesive agent is selected and coated to specific sites isideal for forming the weakly adhered layers 115 a, 117 a and thestrongly adhered layers 116 a, 118 a.

The adhesive agent for the strongly adhered layers 116 a, 118 a and theweakly adhered layers 115 a, 117 a may be optimally selected from amongconventional agents according to the material employed for the baseplate 111A, cover plate 113A and stopper 115, 150. In this case, theadhesive force (adhesive strength) of the adhesive agent forming thestrongly adhered layers 116 a, 118 a must be stronger than the adhesiveforce of the adhesive agent forming the weakly adhered layers 115 a, 117a. When the adhesive force of the adhesive agent forming the stronglyadhered layers 116 a,118 a is less than the adhesive force of theadhesive agent forming the weakly adhered layers 115 a,117 a, then itmay not be possible to move the stoppers 115,150 from the liquid channel112 into the concave section 151 or from the concave section 152 to theliquid channel 112, or to hold the stoppers 115, 150 in place aftermoving, even when pressing on the opening sections S11˜S17 or theclosing section T11. In such cases, it becomes impossible to open orclose the liquid channel 112.

It is preferable that the adhesive force of the adhesive agent formingthe strongly adhered layers 116 a, 118 a be 0.1 N/cm or more greaterthan the adhesive force of the adhesive agent forming the weakly adheredlayers 115 a, 117 a, with a value in the range of 0.1˜30 N/cm being morepreferred. When the adhesive force of the adhesive agent forming thestrongly adhered layers 116 a,118 a is 0.1 N/cm or more than theadhesive force of the adhesive agent forming the weakly adhered layer115 a, 117 a, the opening sections S11˜S17 and the closing section T11can be operated with certainty.

On the other hand, when the difference in the adhesive forces exceeds 30N/cm, it becomes difficult to form the adhesive layers.

For this reason, it is preferable to set the adhesive force of thestrongly adhered layer 116 a, 118 a to be in the range of 1˜30N/cm, andof the weakly adhered layers 115 a, 117 a to be in the range of 0.05˜5N/cm.

Examples of adhesive agents employed in the strongly adhered layers 116a, 118 a and the weakly adhered layers 115 a, 117 a which may be citedinclude acrylics, rubbers, polyurethanes, polyesters, silicon basedadhesive agent, and the like. Among these, acrylic adhesive agents orrubber may be used for the strongly adhered layers 116 a, 118 a.Further, non-woven cloths or polyester fibers may be included as a wickmaterial. Acrylic adhesive agent or silicon-based adhesive agents arepreferably employed for the weakly adhered layers 115 a, 117 a. In orderto maintain the difference between the adhesive force of the stronglyadhered layers 116 a, 118 a and the weakly adhered layers 115 a, 117 awithin the above-described suitable range, methods may be cited such assuitably adjusting the glass transition temperature of the resin formingthe various adhesive agents, including additives in the adhesive such astackifiers, curing agents or wick material, and adjusting the amount ofthese additives.

Note that the term “adhesive force” as employed here is defined as theadhesive strength at 180° peeling from a stainless plate as specified inJIS Z 0237.

Next, in the second step, the stopper 115 is formed to part of theliquid channel 112 which was formed to the base plate 111A in the firststep, i.e., the stopper 115 is formed to the various positions where theopening sections S11˜S17 are provided. Additionally, from among theconcavities 151,152 formed in the cover plate 113A in the first step,the stopper 150 is formed to the concave section 152 corresponding tothe closing section T11.

The formation of the stopper 115 is carried out using a method whichemploys a coating device 124 a such as a printer, dispenser, coater(roll coater, knife coater) or the like, to coat a stopper formingmaterial for forming the stopper 115 to specific positions on thecontinuously supplied base plate 111.

The stopper 150 is also formed by a method in which the stopper formingmaterial is coated and filled in the concavity 152 using theabove-mentioned coating device.

A resin composition having a viscosity in the range of 30˜600 dPa·s maybe optimally employed as the stopper forming material, for example.Further, it is preferable that a resin composition having a viscosity inthe above-cited range does not include a solvent.

The type of resin component included in the resin composition is notparticularly restricted, as long as it has excellent coating properties(printability, dispensability, etc.), good sealing ability, andstability when employed as the stopper, and has a viscosity in the aboverange when employed as a stopper forming material.

A suitable plastic component may be included in the resin composition.

A filler may be included in the resin composition for adjusting theviscosity of the stopper forming material. Examples that may be citedinclude barium sulfate sediment, talc, needle silicon oxide, hollowbeads, etc. One or more of the aforementioned may be employed.

A solvent is incorporated in order to adjust the viscosity of thestopper forming material as necessary, and any suitable organic solventmay be employed therefore.

By employing a method for coating the stopper formation material using aprinting, dispensing or coating method in this way, the stoppers 115,150 can be continuously formed to specific sites with good efficiency.

After coating the stopper forming material to the respective specificsites in this way, various steps not shown in the figures, such as aheat drying step, curing step, etc. are carried out as needed based onthe composition of the stopper forming material.

Next, in the third step, the surface of the cover plate 113A on whichthe concavities 151,152 are formed is laminated and adhered to thechannel formation surface 112 a of the base plate 111A. Further, whileit is desirable to adhere the base plate 111A and the sheet 113A usingan adhesive agent supplied from an adhesive agent supplying device, notshown in the figures, it is also acceptable, depending on the materials,to attach the base plate 111A and the sheet 113A using heat fusion, etc.Further, a sheet coated in advance with a binder or adhesive agent maybe employed.

As a result, it is possible for a plurality of liquid channel devices110 to produce a continuously linked body.

The thus-produced continuous body from the liquid channel device 110Amay be wound as shown in FIG. 27 to form a roll 127, or may be foldedover. Further, it is also acceptable to render the continuous body intoseparate sheet-type forms by cutting each. In the case of the roll 127or the folded forms, it is acceptable to carry out a step in which aperforation or concave-type line is formed in between the various liquidchannel devices 110A. As a result, folding over the continuous bodybetween the various liquid channel devices 110A, or bending thecontinuous bodies from the liquid channel device 110A become easy. Inaddition, it also becomes easy to cut out separate sheet-type forms.

Note that the above-described fifth embodiment provides a design inwhich the stoppers 115,150 are held at specific sites in advance by theweakly adhered layers 115 a, 117 a at each of the various openingsections S11˜S17 and the closing section T11, and thereafter are movedas a result of pressing from the liquid channel 112 to within concavesection 151, or from the concave section 152 into the liquid channel112, and are held at specific sites by the strongly adhered layers 116a, 118 a.

However, the present invention is not limited to an embodiment whichemploys a method utilizing the difference in adhesive strengths to holdthe stoppers 115,150 after moving them to specific positions.

For example, if it is possible to maintain the stoppers 115,150 tightlywithin the convex sections 151,152 by elastic force, etc., when in theopen mode by adjusting the shape and material of the stoppers 115,150,the shape of the convex sections 151,152, and the material of the lidplate 113A in which the convex sections 151,152 are formed, then it isnot absolutely necessary to provide the weakly adhered layer 117 a orthe strongly adhered layer 116 a within the convex sections 151, 152.

Further, it is acceptable to form a pair of stopper rests 119 a,119 b bycreating a projection rising from the floor 112 b of the liquid channel112 as shown in FIG. 28 for example, these stopper rests 119 a,119 bserving to maintain the stoppers 115,150 at specific sites in the liquidchannel 112 with certainty, so that the stoppers 115,150 do not movefrom this location. When the stopper rests 119 a, 119 b are formed froman elastic member, then it is possible use the elastic force to hold thestoppers 115,150 so that they do not deviate from the specific sites inliquid channel 112.

In addition, as explained by the example of opening section S11 in FIG.29, it is also acceptable to employ a method in which the shape of thestopper 115 when viewed in the planar direction is made to berhombohedral or the like, with the maximum width W1 thereof set to begreater than the width W2 of the liquid channel 112, and an engagingconcavity for engaging the ends in the width direction of the stopper115 is formed in the lateral walls of the liquid channel 112. Employingthis method, the ends in the width direction of the stoppers 115,150engage in the engaging concavity and do not deviate from the specificsites by moving along the liquid channel 112 (i.e., in the verticaldirection in the figure). Note that FIG. 29 shows an example of astopper 115 that is rhombohedral in shape when viewed in the planardirection. However, the shape of the stopper when viewed in the planardirection is not limited to a rhomboid, provided that the stopper 115 isformed to have a maximum width W that is larger than the width W2 of theliquid channel 112, and engaging concavities capable of engaging thestopper 115 are formed in both walls of the liquid channel.

In addition to providing the weakly adhered layers 115 a, 117 a and thestrongly adhered layers 116 a,118 a, it is acceptable to incorporate theprovision of stopper rests 119 a,119 b, form the stoppers 115,150 tohave a rhombohedral shape in planar view, etc., as a means for holdingthe stoppers 115,150.

Sixth Embodiment

The liquid channel device 110A according to the fifth embodimentdescribed above exemplified a cover plate 113A having a two-layer designcomprising an outer layer 113 a and an inner layer 113 b, and a baseplate 111A having a three-layer design comprising an outer layer 111 a,middle layer 111 b, and inner layer 111 c, with concave sections 151,152formed in the cover plate 113A.

In the sixth embodiment which follows, as shown in FIGS. 30˜33, thecover plate 113 is made of one layer, while the base plate 111B has afour-layer design including an outer layer 141 a, outside middle layer141 b, inside middle layer 141 c, and inner layer 141 d. Further, inthis embodiment, the concave sections 151, 152 are formed to the floor112 b of the liquid channel rather than to the cover plate 113.

As shown in FIG. 30, in the liquid channel device 110B of thisembodiment, the base plate 111B has a four-layer structure comprising anouter layer 141 a, an outside middle layer 141 b which is laminated tothe inside of the outer layer 141 a, an inside middle layer 141 c whichis laminated to the inside of the outside middle layer 141 b, and aninner layer 141 d which is laminated to the inside of the inside middlelayer 141 c.

The top part (i.e., the portion of the liquid chamber on the cover plate113 side) of the liquid chambers (only sample introduction chamber 114 aand filtering chamber 114 b are shown in FIG. 30) and the liquid channel112 are formed to the inside layer 141 d.

The middle part (i.e., the portion other than the aforementioned toppart and excluding the portion of the chamber on the floor side) of theliquid chambers and the concave sections 151, 152 are formed to theinside middle layer 141 c. The surface of the inside middle layer 141 cwhich is on the inner layer 141 d side forms the floor 112 b of theliquid channel 112.

The bottom part (i.e., the portion of the floor side of the liquidchamber, excluding the aforementioned top and middle parts) of theliquid chambers are formed to the outside middle layer 141 b. Thesurface of the outside middle layer 141 b which is on the inside middlelayer 141 c side forms the floor of the concave sections 151, 152.

The outer layer 141 a is disposed to the outermost side of the baseplate 111B, and the surface of the outer layer 141 a on the outsidemiddle layer 141 b side forms the floor of the liquid chambers.

The cover plate 113 is formed of only one layer.

As exemplified by S11 and S12 in FIG. 30, the opening sections S11˜S17in this liquid channel device 110B are provided with a resin stopper 115inside the liquid channel 112, the stopper 115 being designed to stopthe flow of liquid when disposed so as to cover a portion of the liquidchannel 112, thereby closing this portion of the liquid channel. Aconcave section 151 capable of housing the stopper 115 is formed to aposition opposite the stopper 115 on the floor 112 b of the liquidchannel 112.

As shown in the enlarged view in FIG. 31A, when in the closed mode, theportion (top part) of the stopper 115 of this embodiment which is incontact with the cover plate 113 is fixed in place to the inner surfaceof the cover plate 113 by the weakly adhered layer 115 a. The height ofthe stopper 115 is formed to be slightly greater than the height of theliquid channel, with the floor 115 c side disposed so as to engageinside the concave section 151 in a more or less watertight fashion.

By external pressing on the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112 or thecover plate 113A in the area where the opening sections S11, S12 areprovided, the stopper 115 moves from the liquid channel 112 into theconcave section 151, thereby opening the liquid channel 112 from closedmode.

Specifically, as shown by the example of opening section S1 in FIG. 32Aand FIG. 32B, when an external load is applied to the cover plate 113 bypressing as shown by arrow C, the cover plate 113 bends as shown by FIG.32A. The strongly adhered layer 116 a of the concave section 151 and thefloor 115 c of the stopper 115 contact and adhere. When the load issubsequently removed, then, as shown in FIG. 32B, the cover plate 113returns to its original state due to its restorative force. In thiscase, the stopper 115 is maintained in the housed state within theconcave section 151 due to the action of the strongly adhered layer 116a. As a result, the stopper 115 moves away from the cover plate 113accompanying the restoration of the cover plate 113, enabling flow ofthe liquid.

In this type of opening sections S11˜S17, an external load is applied bypressing on the cover plate 113 in the area of provision of the openingsections S11˜S17. When the load is then removed by means of a subsequentpressing operation, the stopper 115 moves from the liquid channel 112into the concave section 151, thereby opening that portion of the liquidchannel from the closed mode.

Note that in FIG. 32A and FIG. 32B, a load was applied to the coverplate 113 by external pressing, however, it is also possible to move thestopper 115 from the liquid channel 112 into the concave section 151 byexternal pressing on the floor 112 b of the liquid channel 112 in thearea of provision of the opening section S11, i.e., by external pressingon the base plate 111B.

The closing section T11 of this liquid channel device 110B is providedwith a resin stopper 150 as shown in FIG. 31B. This stopper 150 ishoused within the concave section 152 which is formed to the floor 112 bof the liquid channel 112. Specifically, the concave section 152 isformed by knocking out an opening in the inside middle layer 141 c ofthe base plate 111B, and the stopper 150 is housed therein.

When in the open state, the floor of the stopper 150 of this embodimentadheres to the concave section 152 due to the weakly adhered layer 117 aand is housed within the concave section 152. The height of the stopper150 is formed to be slightly greater than the height of the liquidchannel 112. When closing the liquid channel 112 as explained below, thefloor side of the stopper 150 engages in a more or less watertightmanner inside the concave section 152.

The strongly adhered layer 118 a is formed on the inner surface of thecover plate 113, at a position that is opposite the top part of thestopper 150.

The stopper 150 moves from within the concave section 152 into theliquid channel 112 due to external pressing on the floor 112 b of theliquid channel 112 or the cover plate 113 in the area of provision ofthe closing section T11, thereby closing the liquid channel 112 from theopen mode.

Specifically, as shown in FIG. 33A and FIG. 33B, when an external loadis applied to the cover plate 113 by pressing as shown by arrow D, thecover plate 113 bends as shown by FIG. 33A. The strongly adhered layer118 a of the cover plate 113 and the top part of the stopper 150 contactand adhere. When the load is subsequently removed, then, as shown inFIG. 33B, the cover plate 113 returns to its original state due to itsrestorative force. In this case, the stopper 150 is maintained in thehoused state within the cover plate 113 due to the action of thestrongly adhered layer 118 a. As a result, the stopper 150 moves fromthe concave section 152 into the liquid channel 112. The liquid channel112 is thus closed by the stopper 150, so that liquid can no longer flowthrough this area.

In this type of closing section T11, an external load is applied bypressing on the cover plate 113 in the area of provision of the closingsection T11. When the load is then removed by means of a subsequentpressing operation, the stopper 150 moves from the concave section 152into the liquid channel, thereby closing that portion of the liquidchannel 112 from the open mode.

Note that in FIG. 33A and FIG. 33B, a load was applied to the coverplate 113 by external pressing, however, it is also possible to move thestopper 150 from the liquid channel 112 by external pressing on thefloor 112 b of the liquid channel 112 in the area of provision of theclosing section T11, i.e., by external pressing on the base plate 111B.

This liquid channel device 110B of this embodiment can be produced by amethod provided with a first step of forming the liquid channel 112, theliquid chambers, and the concave sections 151, 152 to the base plate111B; a second step of forming the stopper 115 which forms the openingsections S11˜S17 to the inner surface of the cover plate 113 in the areaof provision of the opening sections S11˜S17, and forming the stopper150 which forms the closing section T11 to the inside of the concavesection 152 corresponding to the closing section T11; and a third stepof laminating the surface of the cover plate 113 where the stopper 115is formed to the channel formation surface 112 a which is on the side ofbase plate 111 where the liquid channel 112, etc. is formed.

In the first step, as shown in FIG. 34, a roll 128 of sheet 141 d′ whichforms the inner layer 141 d of the base plate 111B, a roll 129 of sheet141 c′ which forms the inside middle layer 141 c, a roll 130 of sheet141 b′ which forms the outside middle layer 141 b, and a roll 131 ofsheet 141 a′ which forms the outer layer 141 a, are prepared.

Next, the sheet 141 d′ is continuously supplied from roll 128 of sheet141 d′ forming the inner layer 141 d, and a die-cutter 123 a is used topunch out a linear form at the site corresponding to the liquid channel112, and punch out a hole at the area corresponding to the top part ofmetering chamber 114 c and the other various liquid chambers.

Next, the sheet 141 c′ is continuously supplied from roll the 129 of thesheet 141 c′ forming the inside middle layer 141 c, and a die-cutter 123b is employed to punch out holes at the sites corresponding to themiddle part of the metering chamber 114 c and the other various liquidchambers, and to punch out area corresponding to the concave sections151, 152.

Next, the sheet 141 b′ is continuously supplied from roll 130 of sheet141 b′ forming the outside middle layer 141 b. Next, a die-cutter 123 cis employed to punch out holes at the sites corresponding to the bottompart of the metering chamber 114 c and the other various liquidchambers.

Next, the sheet 141 a′ is continuously supplied from roll 131 of sheet141 a′ forming the outer layer 141 a, and the various sheets 141 a′, 141b′, 141 c′, 141 d′ area sequentially laminated, to produce the baseplate 111B.

Here, it is preferable that the various sheets 141 a′, 141 b′, 141 c′and 141 d′ be adhered together by means of an adhesive supplied from anadhesive supplying device not shown in the figures. However, dependingon the material of the various sheets 141 a′, 141 b′, 141 c′ and 141 d′,it is also acceptable to attach the sheets together using heat fusion orthe like. In addition, it is also acceptable to employ a sheet coated inadvance with an adhesive or the like.

Next, prior to carrying out the second step, as in the case of the fifthembodiment, an adhesive layer formation step, not shown in the figures,is carried out in which the weakly adhered layers 115 a, 117 a and thestrongly adhered layers 116 a, 118 a for holding the stopper 115 and150, are formed at specific sites for holding the stoppers 115, 150.

Next, in the second step, the sheet 113′ is continuously supplied fromthe roll 132 of the sheet 113′ for forming the cover plate 113, and thestopper 115 is formed to the inner surface of the cover plate 113 so asto correspond to the position of the opening sections S11˜S17. Fromamong the concave sections 151, 152 which are formed to the floor 112 bof the liquid channel 112 in the first step, the stopper 150 is formedto the inside of the concave section 152 forming the closing sectionT11.

As explained in the fifth embodiment, the formation of the stopper 115is optimally carried out using a method in which a stopper formingmaterial for forming the stopper 115 is coated using a coating device124 a such as a printer, dispenser, coater (roll coater, knife coater)or the like. The formation of the stopper 150 is ideally carried outusing a method in which the coating device 124 a is used to coat thestopper forming material to the inside of the concave section 152 whichis formed to a continuously supplied base plate 111B.

The materials exemplified in the fifth embodiment are ideally employedas the stopper forming material here.

Next, in the third step, the inner surface of the cover plate 113, i.e.,the surface on which the stopper 115 is formed is laminated and adheredto the channel formation surface 112 a of the base plate 111B. Here, itis preferable that the base plate 111B and the cover plate 113 beadhered together by means of an adhesive supplied from an adhesivesupplying device not shown in the figures. However, depending on thematerial of the base plate 111B and the cover plate 113, it is alsoacceptable to attach these together using heat fusion or the like. Inaddition, it is also acceptable to employ a sheet coated in advance withan adhesive or the like. As a result, it is possible to produce acontinuous body in which a plurality of liquid channel devices 110B arecontinuously linked.

The thus-produced continuous body from the liquid channel device 110Bmay be wound in the same manner as in the fifth embodiment to form aroll 133, or may be folded over. Further, it is also acceptable torender the continuous body into separate sheet-type forms by cuttingeach. It is acceptable to carry out a step in which a perforation orconcave-type line is formed in between the various liquid channeldevices 110B.

As in the case of the fifth embodiment, in this embodiment, if it ispossible to maintain the stoppers 115,150 tightly within the convexsections 151,152 due to elastic force, etc., when in open mode byadjusting the shape and material of the stoppers 115,150, the shape ofthe convex sections 151,152, and the material of the base plate 111B inwhich the convex sections 151,152 are formed, then it is not absolutelynecessary to provide the weakly adhered layer 117 a or the stronglyadhered layer 116 a within the convex sections 151, 152.

As in the case of the fifth embodiment, a pair of stopper rests 119 a,119 b may be formed for holding the stoppers 115,150.

Further, it is acceptable for the ends of the stoppers 115,150 in thewidth direction to engage in engaging concavities when in the closedmode, so that the stoppers 115,150 do not deviate from the specificsites along the liquid channel 112 (i.e., deviate in the verticaldirection in the figure).

It is also acceptable to employ these means in combination.

In the liquid channel devices 110, 110A, 110B exemplified in the fourththrough sixth embodiments above, the liquid channel 112 was formed toonly one surface of the base plate 111A, 111B. However, it is alsoacceptable to form the liquid channel 112 to both surfaces of the baseplate 111A, 111B.

Further, there are no limitations on the form of the opening/closingcommunicating holes which are provided as needed to the various liquidchambers. For example, an embodiment is acceptable in which thecommunicating holes can be opened or closed by detachment or attachmentof a cap capable of engaging with the communicating hole formed in thecover lid 113, 113A. Moreover, opening and closing sections of anequivalent design as the opening sections S11˜S17 and the closingsection T11 which are provided to the liquid channel 112 may be providedto the communicating holes.

A liquid transport section may be provided as necessary to the variousliquid chambers. As a specific design for the liquid transport section,an arrangement may be cited in which external pressing is applied to thefloor of the liquid chamber or to the cover plate 113 in the areacorresponding to the liquid chamber, causing the internal capacity ofthe liquid chamber to decrease and expelling the liquid inside theliquid chamber, thereby transporting the liquid downstream. A reverseflow check such as a dam or the like is ideally provided to the liquidchamber which is provided with this type of liquid transport section,for checking the reverse flow of the liquid upstream.

The preceding example disclosed an embodiment in which the action ofgravity was employed to move the liquid. However, it is also acceptableto employ centrifugal force. For example, the liquid channel devices110, 110A, 110B may be set in a centrifuge so that the sampleintroduction chamber 114 a side thereof is positioned on the side of therotational center, and the measuring chamber 114 i side thereof ispositioned on the external periphery of the rotation. The liquid channeldevices 110, 110A, 110B are then rotated so that the centrifugal forceacts from upstream to downstream, with the liquid flowing as a result.

In addition, when rotating the liquid channel devices 110, 110A, 110Band utilizing centrifugal force to cause the liquid to flow in this way,a pressure disk may be employed for the various pressing operations toactivate the opening sections S11˜S17 and closing section T11. Thispressure disk applies pressure at specific sites while moving in theradial direction of rotation over the surface of the cover plates113,113A of the liquid channel devices 110, 110A, 110B, from the centerof rotation to the outer periphery of rotation.

In addition to moving the liquid using gravity or centrifugal force, itis also acceptable to move and cause the liquid to flow by incorporatinga method in which the liquid channel 112, a portion of the liquidchambers, or both are heated to expand the air in the liquid channel 112or liquid chambers, or a method in which an oxygen absorbing agent(readily oxidizable iron powder for example) is sealed into part of theliquid channel 112 to absorb the oxygen and decrease the pressure insidethe liquid channel 112.

In the preceding discussion, the method of piercing the cover plate113,113A with a syringe was exemplified as a method for injecting asample into the sample introduction chamber 114 a. However, it is alsoacceptable to form a sample injection hole in the cover plates 113,113Ain advance and inject the samples via these holes. In this case, aprotective tape may be used to cover the sample injection hole, with theinjection carried out by piercing the protective tape with the syringe.Alternatively, it is also acceptable to peel off the protective tape andthen carry out the injection by introducing the syringe into the sampleinjection hole.

The sample and reagent that flow through the liquid channel devices 110,110A, 110B are not particularly restricted. Samples and reagents whichare conventionally employed in the medical and environmental fields aswell as others, may be suitably combined in use.

For example, in the medical field, such biological derivatives as blood(whole blood), serum, plasma, buffy coat, urine, stercus, saliva, sputumor the like, as well as viruses, or bacterial, mold, yeast, or plantcells, may be cited. It is also acceptable to employ DNA or RNA isolatedfrom these products. Alternatively, it is also acceptable to employ as asample the products obtained by performing any kind of pre-treatment ordilution on the preceding.

The liquid channel devices 110, 110A, 110B are provided with a filteringchamber 114 b downstream from the sample introduction chamber 114 a, forfiltering the sample which flows from the sample introduction chamber114 a. Thus, by employing a liquid channel device 110, 110A, 110B ofthis sort, a sample which previously would have required filtering in aseparate filtering device can be supplied into the sample introductionchamber 114 a of the liquid channel device 110, 110A, 110B withoutfiltering.

The reagent is not particularly restricted, and may be suitably selectedin response to the target components. In the case where capturing andanalyzing for the presence of an antigen in the sample using theantibody-antigen reaction, it is preferable to use a reagent whichincludes an antibody to the antigen.

Note that the preceding example disclosed an embodiment in which theantigen was captured by the antibody by pre-filling the first reagentchamber 114 e and the second reagent chamber 114 g with a reagentcontaining an antibody, and then mixing these reagents with the samplecontaining the antigen in the first mixing chamber 114 f and secondmixing chamber 114 h. However, the arrangement for capturing the antigenwith the antibody is not limited to this embodiment. For example,magnetic beads carrying the antibody or antigen may be fixed in theliquid chambers or along the liquid channel of the liquid channel device110, 110A, 110B, and the sample may be made to flow through this area,so that the antigens in the same are captured on the antibodies. Next, asuitable reagent may be introduced into the sample introduction chamber114 a via syringe, with the liquid transport section employed as needed,and the thus-captured antigens then washed, denatured, multiplied(concentrated), and separated to increase the accuracy of analysis.

The reactions carried out in the liquid channel devices 110, 110A, 110Bare not limited to antibody-antigen reactions. Rather, a variety ofchemical reactions, DNA amplifying PCR (polymerase chain reaction), andDNA and other protein capturing reactions can be carried out. It is alsoacceptable to combine a plurality of reactions, or to carry out only amixing treatment in the liquid channel device 110. Namely, no reactionmay be carried out. Thus, there is no limitation on the method of use ofthe liquid channel device 110, 110A, 110B.

In order to promote these various reactions and promote flow of theliquid, these treatments can be carried out in the liquid channel 112 orthe liquid chambers. For example, chemical treatments using acid oralkali, physical treatments using latex or fluorescent substances, andbiochemical treatments using antigens, antibodies, DNA or the like, canbe carried out to obtain such surface treatment effects as hydrophilic,lipophilic and water repellency treatments. In addition, it is alsoacceptable to carry out pigment coating treatments, plasma treatments,frame treatments and the like. Further, it is acceptable to provide abaffle plate, stirring plate or projections, or to form a hydrolyzingprofile, as necessary to the liquid channel 112, to create a uniformmixing state for the flowing liquid. Further, the inside of the liquidchannel 112 or the chambers may be pressurized or subjected to reducedpressure (vacuum treatment).

Further, colorants, pigments, fluorescent agents and the like may beintroduced to the suitable liquid chamber, enabling the sample whichreaches the chamber to be colored, or fluorescence to be added to thesample.

It is also acceptable to directly print the liquid chamber name(“metering chamber” for example), the order or details of the procedurewhich is carried out using these liquid chamber devices 110, 110A, 110B,etc. as needed to optional sites on the base plates 111, 111A, 111B,liquid chambers, liquid channel 112, or cover plates 113, 113A of theliquid channel device 110, 110A, 110B. Alternatively, a display sealprinted with the order or details of the procedure, chamber name, etc.may be adhered or a marking with any kind of symbol may be provided. Itis also acceptable to render a portion of the cover plate 113, 113Atransparent, so that area stands out.

A conventionally known optical or electrical means may be employed asthe detecting and analyzing section for the measured liquid that isformulated in the liquid channel devices 110, 110A, 110B. In this case,the liquid channel devices 110, 110A, 110B may be heated or cooled asnecessary.

EXPLANATION OF SYMBOLS

-   10A, 10B liquid channel device-   11A, 11B base plate-   11 e outer layer-   11 f middle layer-   11 g inner layer-   12 liquid channel-   12 a channel formation surface-   13 cover plate-   13 a first base layer-   13 b strongly adhered layer-   13 c second base layer-   13 d weakly adhered layer-   14 c metering chamber-   15 first convex section-   15 a top part of first convex section-   16 second convex section-   16 a top part of second convex section-   17 spacer-   18 dam plate-   S1˜S14 opening section-   T1˜T2 closing section-   P1˜P5, P1′ liquid transport section-   G1˜G6 reverse flow check-   110, 110A, 110B liquid channel device-   111, 111A, 111B base plate-   111 a, 141 a outer layer of base plate-   111 b middle layer of base plate-   111 c, 141 d inner layer of base plate-   141 b middle layer on outside of base plate-   141 c middle layer on inside of base plate-   112 liquid channel-   112 a channel formation surface-   113, 113A cover plate-   113 a outer layer of cover plate-   113 b inner layer of cover plate-   S11˜S17 opening section-   T11 closing section-   115, 150 stopper-   116 sealing material supply chamber-   130 sealing material-   151, 152 concave section

The invention claimed is:
 1. A liquid channel device including a baseplate in which a liquid channel through which a liquid flows and one ormore liquid chambers for holding the liquid are formed to at least onesurface thereof, and a cover plate which is laminated to a channelformation surface of the base plate where the liquid channel and theliquid chambers are formed; wherein the liquid channel device furtherincludes an opening section for opening a portion of the liquid channelfrom a closed mode; the opening section includes a stopper which isfixed to a portion of the liquid channel by a weakly adhered layer; aconcave section capable of housing the stopper is formed at a positionon an inner surface of the cover plate or a floor of the liquid channelthat is opposite the stopper, and a strongly adhered layer, which has alarger adhesive strength than the weakly adhered layer, is formed in theconcave section; and the stopper is moved from the portion of the liquidchannel to within the concave section by external pressing on the coverplate or the floor of the liquid channel and is housed in the concavesection by the strongly adhered layer, thereby opening the liquidchannel.
 2. A production method for one of the liquid channel devicesaccording to claim 1, in which the concave section is formed to theinner surface of the cover plate, including: a first step of forming theliquid channel and the liquid chambers to the base plate, and formingthe concave section to the cover plate; a second step of forming thestopper to the portion of the liquid channel; and a third step oflaminating the cover plate to the channel formation surface of the baseplate; in the first step, a top part of the liquid chambers and theliquid channel are formed to a sheet that forms an inner layer of thebase plate, and a bottom part of the liquid chambers is formed to asheet that forms a middle layer of the base plate, after which the sheetforming the inner layer, the sheet forming the middle layer and a sheetforming an outer layer of the base plate are laminated sequentially,thereby forming the liquid channel and the liquid chambers to the baseplate; the concave section is formed to a sheet that forms the innerlayer of the cover plate, after which the sheet that forms the innerlayer of the cover plate and the sheet that forms the outer layer of thecover plate are laminated to form the concave section in the coverplate; and in the second step, the stopper is formed by coating astopper forming material for forming the stopper.
 3. A production methodfor the liquid channel devices according to claim 1 in which the concavesection is formed to the floor of the liquid channel, including: a firststep of forming the liquid channel, the liquid chambers, and the concavesection to the base plate; a second step of forming the stopper to theposition opposite the concave section on the inner surface of the coverplate; and a third step of laminating the cover plate to the channelformation surface of the base plate; in the first step, a top part ofthe liquid chambers and the liquid channel are formed to a sheet thatforms an inner layer of the base plate, a middle part of the liquidchambers and the concave section are formed to a sheet that forms aninside middle layer of the base plate, and a bottom part of the liquidchambers are formed to a sheet that forms an outside middle layer of thebase plate, after which the sheet forming the inner layer of the baseplate, the sheet forming the inside middle layer, the sheet forming theoutside middle layer, and a sheet forming an outer layer of the baseplate are laminated sequentially; and in the second step, the stopper isformed by coating a stopper forming material for forming the stopper. 4.A liquid channel device including a base plate in which a liquid channelthrough which a liquid flows and one or more liquid chambers for holdingthe liquid are formed to at least one surface thereof, and a cover platewhich is laminated to a channel formation surface of the base plate inwhich the liquid channel and the liquid chambers are formed, wherein theliquid channel device further includes a closing section for closing aportion of the liquid channel from an open mode; the closing sectionincludes a stopper which is housed within a concave section formed to aninner surface of the cover plate or a floor of the liquid channel, andis maintained in the housed state within the concave section due to aweakly adhered layer; a strongly adhered layer, which has a largeradhesive strength than the weakly adhered layer, is formed in theconcave section at a portion of the liquid channel; and the stoppermoves from within the concave section to a portion of the liquid channeldue to external pressing on the cover plate or the floor of the liquidchannel, and is maintained at a portion of the liquid channel due to thestrongly adhered layer, thereby closing the liquid channel.
 5. Aproduction method for the liquid channel devices according to claim 4,in which the concave section is formed to the inner surface of the coverplate, including: a first step of forming the liquid channel and theliquid chambers to the base plate, and forming the concave section tothe cover plate; a second step of forming the stopper within the concavesection; and a third step of laminating the cover plate to the channelformation surface of the base plate; in the first step, a top part ofthe liquid chambers and the liquid channel are formed to a sheet thatforms an inner layer of the base plate, and a bottom part of the liquidchambers is formed to a sheet that forms a middle layer of the baseplate, after which the sheet forming the inner layer of the base plate,the sheet forming the middle layer of the base plate and a sheet formingan outer layer of the base plate are laminated sequentially, to form theliquid channel and the liquid chambers to the base plate; the concavesection is formed to a sheet forming an inner layer of the cover plate,after which a sheet forming an inner layer of the cover plate and asheet forming an outer layer of the cover plate are laminated, to formthe concave section in the cover plate; and in the second step, thestopper is formed by coating a stopper forming material for forming thestopper.
 6. A production method for the liquid channel devices accordingclaim 4, in which the concave section is formed to the floor of theliquid channel, including: a first step of forming the liquid channel,the liquid chambers and the concave section to the base plate; a secondstep of forming the stopper within the concave section; and a third stepof laminating the cover plate to the channel formation surface of thebase plate; in the first step, a top part of the liquid chambers and theliquid channel are formed to a sheet that forms an inner layer of thebase plate, a middle part of the liquid chambers and the concave sectionare formed to a sheet that forms an inside middle layer of the baseplate, and a bottom part of the liquid chambers are formed to a sheetthat forms an outside middle layer of the base plate, after which thesheet forming the inner layer of the base plate, the sheet forming theinside middle layer, the sheet forming the outside middle layer, and asheet forming an outer layer of the base plate are laminatedsequentially; and in the second step, the stopper is formed by coating astopper forming material for forming the stopper.